If you only want to see your front door from your phone, a DIY camera may be enough. If you want someone to respond when the alarm goes off, everything in one app and no exposed wires, an installed, monitored system is a different thing. Decide by what you need, not by the box.
DIY has grown a lot
According to Parks Associates, 39% of security system owners bought theirs online in 2025, and 74% of installing companies say they lost sales to DIY. More than 60% of people who self-monitor feel just as safe.
What professional monitoring adds
In J.D. Power’s 2024 study, satisfaction among people with professional monitoring was 898 points, versus 881 among those without it. The number one reason for choosing a system was brand reputation, and customer service was the third factor.
Side by side: DIY or installed
| Aspect | DIY camera | Installed, monitored system |
|---|---|---|
| Who responds to an alarm | You, from your phone | A professional monitoring center |
| Installation | You do it | Technicians, with hidden cable |
| Integration | Depends on the brand | Alarm, cameras, lock and thermostat in one app |
| Contract | Usually none | Usually an agreement; ask about month to month |
| Help | Brand support | A local team, in English and Spanish |
When DIY makes sense
- You only want to see one door or a patio.
- You are moving soon and want no commitments.
- You enjoy installing and setting things up yourself.
When an installed system makes sense
- You want someone to act when the alarm goes off, even if you aren’t looking at your phone.
- You want everything in one app: alarm, cameras, lock and AC.
- You don’t want exposed wires or to lose a weekend.
- You run a business and need access control.
Whatever you choose, protect the account
Protect your account’s privacy. Seven simple steps. And if you want to compare with numbers, here is the cost guide.