Why You Can Trust CNET Get a SkylinkNet SK-210 home security system for $89.99
From the Cheapskate: Though priced the same as last time, this version comes with an extra remote and improved apps.
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You know what they say: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And if there's one thing you want to prevent, it's someone breaking into your home. Hence the value of a home-security system.
Alas, with that value comes expense, especially if you're paying a monthly fee for a monitored system. And do you really want to install those big, ugly cameras all over the place?
Thankfully, there's another option in the form of DIY "smart" home-security solutions, which have a low cost of entry while offering a lot of features.
Example: For a limited time, you can get the SkylinkNet SK-210 alarm system starter kit for $89.99 shipped when you apply coupon code CNETSK210 at checkout. Regular price: $159.99.
I first wrote about this system nearly a year ago. The price was the same, but this version includes a second remote. What's more, the company has had time to polish its apps, which are available for both Android and iOS.
Though definitely a starter kit, the SK-210 includes everything you need to protect an apartment or small house: an Internet-connected hub, two door/window sensors and the aforementioned two keychain remotes.
It also comes with two window stickers, which are arguably the best deterrent of all. (Aside: One wonders whether just buying the stickers would be as effective as buying a whole home-security system.)
As with most such kits, you can scale up with more and different sensors (including motion, water-leak and garage-door) and indoor IP cameras. What's more, you can control everything via app.
I haven't had any hands-on (home-on?) experience with the SkylinkNet system, but CNET's review will tell you everything you need to know. Spoiler alert: "There's nothing groundbreaking about this simple system, but for basic small home security, it gets the job done." Meanwhile, be sure to read some of the customer reviews over at Amazon, which are mixed. Likewise, some of the app reviews raise some red flags.
If you took advantage of this deal last time around, please hit the comments and let your fellow cheeps know how it worked out. At face value, this looks to be an awfully affordable way to get a modern home-security makeover.
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