When it comes to safeguarding your home, selecting the right type of monitoring for your security system is a critical decision. In the U.S., homeowners can typically choose between self-monitoring and professional monitoring. Each option offers distinct advantages and potential drawbacks. Understanding the differences can help you decide which solution best fits your lifestyle, budget, and security needs.
What Is Self Monitoring?
Self-monitoring is a home security system setup where you, the homeowner, are responsible for keeping an eye on your property. When sensors are triggered, you’ll receive a notification via a smartphone app or email, and it’s up to you to take action — whether that means calling the police, alerting a neighbor, or deciding it was just the cat again.
Pros of Self Monitoring
- Cost Savings: No monthly fees are usually required.
- Full Control: You decide how to respond to alerts and what level of action is necessary.
- Customization: Easily customize alerts, schedules, and settings via your app or desktop.
Cons of Self Monitoring
- Delayed Response: If you’re in a meeting, asleep, or out of signal, you might miss a critical alert.
- User Responsibility: The burden of monitoring and response decision is entirely on you.
- Stress Factor: Managing alerts during a vacation or business trip can be stressful and disruptive.
What Is Professional Monitoring?
Professional monitoring involves a monthly subscription to a security company that monitors your home 24/7. When an alarm is triggered, their team quickly assesses the situation and contacts emergency services if needed. Most top-tier security providers, such as ADT, Vivint, and SimpliSafe, offer this feature either by default or as an add-on.
Pros of Professional Monitoring
- 24/7 Coverage: No need to worry about missed alerts or being unreachable during emergencies.
- Quick Response Time: Trained professionals are often faster at identifying issues and contacting responders.
- Reduced Stress: Peace of mind knowing someone’s always watching over your home.
Cons of Professional Monitoring
- Monthly Fees: Costs typically range from $15 to $60 a month.
- False Alarms: May result in unnecessary emergency responses, sometimes even fines in certain jurisdictions.
- Less Customization: Limited control over how alerts are managed, and sometimes locked into proprietary apps.
Key Factors to Consider
To decide whether self or professional monitoring is right for you, consider the following factors:
1. Budget
If you’re working within a tight budget and want to avoid recurring fees, self-monitoring makes sense. However, consider the hidden costs — such as fines for false alarms or reimbursing stolen property — if you’re not able to respond in time.
2. Lifestyle
Are you home most of the time? Do you travel often? Professionals constantly on the go may prefer professional monitoring so they don’t have to worry about keeping tabs. Conversely, those working from home may find self-monitoring adequate and cost-efficient.
3. Technology Comfort Level
If you’re tech-savvy and enjoy managing settings through apps and integrations with smart home devices, self-monitoring might be ideal. Those less comfortable with tech will benefit from letting professionals handle the system.
4. Location and Crime Risk
Living in a high-crime area or neighborhood with frequent break-ins may tip the scale in favor of professional monitoring for added security. In lower-risk areas, self-monitoring could be sufficient.
5. Family and Household Needs
Have kids, elderly family members, or house guests? Professional monitoring offers added security knowing support is available even when you’re not. You won’t want to miss a critical notification while your grandma’s at home alone.
Popular Self and Professional Monitoring Systems in the U.S.
Several home security companies offer both self-monitoring and professional monitoring packages. Here’s a quick look at some popular brands and what they provide:
- SimpliSafe: Offers optional monitoring starting at $17.99/month. Great for budget-conscious users.
- Ring Alarm: Self-monitoring is free; professional monitoring is available through a subscription plan at $20/month.
- ADT: One of the oldest players in professional monitoring. Monthly plans typically start at $45/month.
- Arlo: Known for camera systems; offers both subscription-based monitoring and DIY options.
- Vivint: Premium smart home integrations, with professional monitoring bundled into higher-tier packages.
Making Your Decision
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing between self and professional monitoring. Think of your decision as finding a balance between control, cost, and peace of mind.
Choose Self Monitoring if:
- You want to save money and avoid monthly fees.
- You’re tech-savvy and can manage app-based notifications efficiently.
- You spend most of your time at home or have few security concerns.
Choose Professional Monitoring if:
- You want 24/7 security oversight.
- You travel frequently or have unpredictable availability.
- You live in a higher-risk area or want additional peace of mind for your family.
Hybrid Options: The Best of Both Worlds
Some companies offer hybrid plans where you can self-monitor most of the time but activate professional monitoring when needed—such as during long trips. This allows flexibility without committing to a full-time subscription year-round.
Pro Tip: Look for systems that allow on-demand monitoring, where you can pay a small fee to enable professional monitoring temporarily.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose self-monitoring or professional monitoring, the most important thing is that your home and loved ones are protected in a way that suits your needs. Technology has made both options more accessible and customizable than ever before. Evaluate your time, lifestyle, and willingness to intervene in an emergency before making the call.
Ultimately, the right choice comes down to how proactive you want to be in managing your home’s safety — and how much peace of mind is worth to you.
