Wyze DIY Home Security Review

HOW IS WYZE RATED?

Wyze offers home security products that are easy to install, can connect with each other from a central hub, and are inexpensive when compared to other home security systems. The Wyze Home Monitoring system (HMS) comes with a core starter kit that can be expanded to include additional sensors and devices for a more comprehensive equipment array, and includes 24/7 professional monitoring that can alert first responders in case of an emergency.

IS WYZE WORTH IT?

When considering a home security system, it is important to understand the actual security needs of the home. What makes Wyze a worthwhile alternative to most consumers who choose a DIY home security system is the customization available to them. Although Wyze’s Home Monitoring core starter kit does not include cameras, customers can easily and affordably add up to five different cameras. Supplemental entry or motion sensors can also be installed as part of the HMS.

This means that the HMS can work for home units of all sizes. In fact, its webpage even provides suggestions for smaller units such as apartments or condos, medium-sized homes of one or two bedrooms, and larger houses of three bedrooms or more.

Aside from the equipment and the 24/7 monitoring service, the HMS offers one Cam Plus license to be used for any one Wyze camera you purchase or already own. This allows for unlimited video length, no cooldown period between videos, and specialized features for person, package, vehicle, and pet detection. Facial recognition has been announced as a feature to be added in 2021.

HOW DOES WYZE WORK?

The Wyze Home Monitoring service Core Starter Kit includes the following:

• One Wyze Sense Hub
• One Wyze Sense Keypad
• Two Wyze Sense Entry Sensors
• One Wyze Sense Motion Sensor
• Two Window Decals

In addition, the HMS includes the 24/7 home monitoring service for a monthly or annual fee, and one Cam Plus License.

Setting the system up is a simple process and customers can install it without much hassle. They can manage the system through Wyze’s mobile app available for iOS and Android systems.

For a more robust and personalized home security system, customers should invest in Wyze Cams or other Wyze devices. The two Wyze Cam models can provide livestream and recording for either the outside of the home or the inside.  

Additional sensors can provide further protection, especially in larger homes or where there are multiple access points.

SECURITY MONITORS, SENSORS, & DEVICES

Intrusion Protection

• Entry Sensors
• Motion Sensors

Environmental Protection

• Carbon Monoxide
• Smoke

Surveillance

• Indoor Cameras
• Outdoor Cameras
• Live Surveillance
• Event-triggered Surveillance

MONITORING

Wyze offers monitoring services through its collaboration with Noonlight. Noonlight is a national provider of security monitoring and dispatching services. They are listed by the UL and are Five Diamond certified.

Noonlight will receive a notification whenever an alarm is triggered at your home. Users will then have a set time period to cancel the alarm before Noonlight contacts law enforcement and sends an emergency dispatch to your home.

One drawback to Wyze’s monitoring system is that it does not have cellular backup. In the case of a power outage that disrupts broadband services, the system will not be able to communicate with the monitoring center and will only work locally with its internal siren.

HOW MUCH DOES WYZE COST?

Wyze offers one of, if not the most affordable home security monitoring service in the industry. The Wyze HMS only costs $4.99 per month, whether you choose a monthly or annual plan. The advantage of going with the annual plan is the 50% discount you get for the Core Starter Kit. 

Wyze Home Monitoring system (monthly)

• $4.99 billed monthly for the monitoring service
• $79.88 for the Core Starter Kit

Wyze Home Monitoring system (annual)

• $59.88 billed yearly for the monitoring service (which is the equivalent of $4.99 per month)
• $39.98 for the Core Starter Kit (50% off the regular price) 

Both services include one Cam Plus License and free shipping. If customers wish to add equipment to their systems, they can choose from a variety of devices:

• Wyze Cam Outdoor Bundle - $59.98
• Wyze Cam Outdoor Add-On Camera - $46.98
• Wyze Cam Pan - $37.98
• Wyze Sense Keypad - $24.98
• Wyze Sense Entry Sensor Three-Pack - $29.98
• Wyze Sense Motion Sensor One-Pack - $14.98

Further, the Cam Plus service can be added to any camera for $1.99 a month.

TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATIONS

The Wyze Home Monitoring service can easily integrate with Google Assistant and Alexa, though there is no compatibility with Apple Home products. 

Many of Wyze’s own products can be accessed and managed through its app (available for iOS or Android). But the system can also create commands for third-party equipment and devices, such as smart lighting, by using the external home integration platform IFTTT (if this then that).

Compatibility

Mobile Access & Alerts

• iPhone App
• Android App
• Email & Text Alerts
• Live Surveillance Feed

Home Automation

• Event-triggered Automation

WYZE REPUTATION

Although Wyze is a relatively new company, it has made inroads in the DIY home security industry. First with its individual Waze Cams and now with its Home Monitoring Services, the company has been well-reviewed by online technology publications, with emphasis on its ease-of-use and affordability. Nonetheless, because it’s a recent company, many online customer reviews have been unfavorable when it comes to Wyze’s customer support services, as evidenced by its BBB and Trustpilot scores. We expect those to even out over time.

Underwriter's Laboratory (UL)Certifications & Associations