No-Contract Security Doesn’t Always Mean No Fees
More and more home security companies are advertising no-contract security systems, meaning you can buy the hardware without committing to a long-term service plan. Sounds great, right?
The problem is that most of these systems still charge for essential features.
- Want to control your system through a mobile app? That’ll cost you.
- Need alerts when a sensor is triggered? You’ll need a subscription.
- Want to integrate with smart home platforms? It’s locked behind a paywall.
So while you’re not locked into a contract, you might still have to pay monthly just to use your system.
But there are some exceptions. Let’s break down the best no-contract home security systems and see which ones truly let you avoid fees.
Top No-Contract Home Security Systems (Ranked by Fees & Features)
1. Abode – The Best Truly No-Fee Security System
✅ No monthly fee required for app access
✅ Free mobile alerts, arming/disarming, and smart home integrations
✅ Works with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, Alexa, IFTTT, and Zigbee
✅ Optional monitoring plans if you want extra protection
If you want a system that works without a paid plan, Abode is your best option. Unlike other brands, it gives you full app control for free—including remote access, smart home automation, and alerts.
It also stands out for its broad compatibility with smart home platforms. While most security systems only work with Alexa or Google, Abode also supports Apple HomeKit and Zigbee, making it one of the most flexible options available.
Potential downside? If you need 24/7 professional monitoring, you’ll have to pay a subscription (like all other brands). But for self-monitoring, Abode offers the most free features of any system.
👉 Explore Abode’s contract-free home security bundles
2. Ring Alarm – No Contract, But Requires a Subscription for App Features
✅ Affordable hardware
✅ Works with Alexa
❌ Must pay for Ring Protect Plan ($4.99+/mo) to get mobile alerts and app controls
❌ No free smart home integrations (HomeKit, Google, or Zigbee not supported)
Ring Alarm is a solid DIY security system, but to get the most out of it, you’ll need a paid subscription. Without the Ring Protect Plan, you won’t get app notifications or be able to check video footage from Ring cameras.
👉 Compare Ring Alarm packages
3. SimpliSafe – No Contract, But Limited Free Features
✅ Good hardware selection
✅ Optional monitoring plans
❌ Remote app control requires a $29.99/month plan
❌ No free smart home integrations (no Zigbee, HomeKit, or IFTTT support)
SimpliSafe is often praised for its easy setup and solid security, but if you want to control it remotely, receive alerts, or automate features, you’ll need to pay a monthly fee.
👉 Check SimpliSafe’s latest deals
4. Wyze Home Monitoring – Budget-Friendly, But Not Fully Free
✅ Affordable upfront cost
✅ Works with Alexa & Google Assistant
❌ App features and alerts require a $9.99/month subscription
❌ No HomeKit or Zigbee support
Wyze is one of the cheapest options for home security, but the free tier is very limited. Without a subscription, you lose access to key features like cloud video storage and app notifications.
👉 See Wyze security options
Which No-Contract Security System Is Truly “No-Fee”?
If you want to completely avoid monthly fees, Abode is the only system that gives you full app access and smart home control for free.
Other brands offer no-contract security, but they all require a paid plan to unlock essential features.
Best for No Fees: Abode (full app access, alerts, and integrations for free)
Best for Budget Buyers: Wyze (cheaper hardware, but requires a subscription)
Best for Alexa Users: Ring Alarm (good for Amazon smart homes, but requires Ring Protect)
Best for Professional Monitoring: SimpliSafe (strong system, but expensive monthly fees)
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Fooled by “No-Contract” Claims
Most home security systems that claim to have “no monthly fees” actually hide key features behind a paywall. If you want full app access, alerts, and smart home integration without paying extra, Abode is your best choice.
That said, if you’re okay with paying a monthly fee, Ring, SimpliSafe, and Wyze all offer solid security options—but make sure to factor in the long-term costs.
