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Best Alternative Home Security Gadgets

Best Alternative Home Security Gadgets

Last updated: January 9, 2025 (0)
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After our investigation on Reddit, we’ve learned that some home owners see the topic of home security under a different light. While alarm companies emphasize the point of effectively countering a burglary (either by having the police dispatched in time, or by sounding the sirens before they could get to the loot), Redditers believed that you should instead deter or prevent the home invasion from happening in the first place. They recommend strengthening your defense with quality deadbolts, window locks and door plating, as well as installing outdoor cameras at every corner. Digging deeper on the topic of affordable home defense solutions, we found a number of security gadgets that serve as a great addition to your professional home security system, since none of them cost more than $20.

Reinforcements for doors

Seasoned criminals won’t be scared away so easily, and it’s likely they’ll “test” the durability of your security measures. Most home invasions start by kicking in the door or by breaking the deadbolt. But imagine their surprise when finding a second line of defense! This Master Lock 265DCCSEN Dual-Function Security Bar is capable of strengthening hinged and sliding doors alike. This handy multifunctional tool is made of rugged 20 gauge steel, and compatible with any kind of door. Just apply it to the slide or to the doorknob, and no one will force their way through there. In case you prefer the “set and forget” kind of defense, then reinforce your doors with Prime-Line Products’ U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock, which is not only tamperproof, but no one can open them from the outside!

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Motion sensing lights

Those who are a little bit familiar with security cameras know that infra vision is an expensive but necessary feature, otherwise the footage provides no evidence if the robbery happened at night. However, it’s more cost efficient to roll with a simple camera and complement it with a motion sensing light. Swiftly Done’s Solar Power Outdoor LED Light not only provides clear visibility when sensing movement, but it can be installed without tools thanks to its “peel and stick” nature. It’s durable and resists harsh weather conditions. And best of all, it’s solar powered, thus you don’t need to worry about changing the batteries. One would wonder why not every spotlight is solar powered, since you won’t need them during the day…

Portable alarms

Last but not least, let’s talk about small, portable devices that require no installation, perfect for taking with you when on holiday to protect your hotel room and belongings. The first gadget is called Hanging Alarm from Doberman Security. It can be put on the doorknob, and if anyone fiddles with it then the 100db siren will definitely help them come around. The device is lightweighted and works with batteries, so you can use it on the front door as well. The second useful portable security addition is a door stop alarm. You’ll most likely find one in any hardware store or online. The concept is simple: you slide it under the door, and when someone opens it from the outside the sliding panel will push the siren button. Most door stop alarms have different settings for the volume, guaranteeing that the burglars will pack their pants even before setting foot on the property.


Best home security systems of 2025

Editors' choice
Vivint logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
24/7 monitoring
60-month interest-free financing
Wide variety of equipment
Home automation
Simple home security
Frontpoint Security logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
100% cellular/wireless equipment
Easy to set up and world class support
Reliable monitoring service
30-day risk-free trial
Smart home features
ADT logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Polished mobile apps
Extensive home automation
High-quality equipment
Alexa integration
Professional monitoring
Deep Sentinel  logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Fast response time
Easy setup
1080p HD camera
24/7 live monitoring
Flexible pricing
abode logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Comprehensive device list
No contracts or mandatory monitoring fee
Wide range of customization possibilities
Amazon Echo compatible
Self-monitoring
Blink Home Security logo
Editor's rating:
(4)
Smart cameras and video doorbell
Amazon Echo compatible
Refurbished products available
Self-monitoring without contracts

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