The cheapest sounders are buzzers and bells. Traditional tubular chimes are more expensive. You can also choose chimes with a microchip inside that can play a variety of tunes.
Battery-operated systems are the cheapest to buy and the simplest to install. The batteries may last for a couple of years, depending on how often the bell is rung.
Mains-operated systems cost more to buy because you need a small transformer to power them, but once they are installed they then have minimal running costs. They are often more compact than battery-operated types because they do not need a battery compartment. They also allow you the luxury of having an illuminated bell push.