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Article updated on March 12, 2024 at 4:00 AM PDT

Best Cheap Home Security Devices for 2024

Keep you and your property safe with security devices under $50.

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Written by 
David Priest
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David Priest Former editor
David Priest is an award-winning writer and editor who formerly covered home security for CNET.
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$18 at Amazon
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Best cheap DIY lock
Rishon Enterprises Addalock
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You certainly don't want to cut corners when it comes to home security, but the costs of professional monitoring and hardware fees can add up quickly. Fortunately, all kinds of security equipment, including lights, detectors, contact sensors and other easy-to-install systems are becoming more affordable by the day. That means that you can keep your house, and everyone and everything in it, safer without spending serious cash. 

As my CNET colleague Megan Wollerton puts it, "The era of the $200 security camera is over." This means you can get several kinds of budget home security devices, including door and window sensors, security cameras and motion detectors for your home. Plus, many are often on sale for under $20 so you can secure your house and have peace of mind while away without breaking the bank.

Read more: Best Cheap Home Security Cameras for 2023

$18 at Amazon

Best cheap DIY lock

Rishon Enterprises Addalock

It can be tough for renters to boost their home security in part because home security system installation can be pretty involved -- especially when you're talking smart deadbolts. So if you want to add a little security to your door locks without much hassle or cash down, consider a DIY system retrofit lock .

Devices like these, while not Wi-Fi connected, still offer clever ways to add one more home security barrier for burglars to bypass, which equals a little peace of mind for the anxious homeowner. Although it lacks any of the bells and whistles of a smart lock (like a control panel or burglar alarm), it's portable so you can bring this cheap home security lock with you when you're staying at a hotel or an Airbnb.

Watch this: How to buy the right security camera for you