SimpliSafe Logo

SimpliSafe

star star star_half star_border star_border

6.5

Overall Score

LAST UPDATED: March 4th, 2024

SimpliSafe is a do-it-yourself security provider offering basic security features, including burglary alarms, fire detectors, carbon monoxide sensors, freeze sensors, and flood sensors. SimpliSafe equipment can be ordered online with packages ranging from $229 to $489. You can usually find seasonal promotions that will lower the overall cost of the system. SimpliSafe does not offer any equipment for lease.

SimpliSafe offers one of the lowest monthly monitoring fees in the industry, with monthly fees starting at $17.99 per month. The company uses cellular signal monitoring through COPS Monitoring Service, a CSAA-certified central monitoring station.

SimpliSafe is one of the only home security providers that does not attach a contract to any of its equipment.

Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of purchasing a SimpliSafe home security system or check out the SimpliSafe customer reviews.

Top Ranked Companies

thumb_up

The Good

  • Low Monthly Fees
  • Industry Innovations
  • No Contract or Moving Fees
  • 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee
  • Separate Devices for "Brain" and Keypad 
  • 100% Wireless Equipment
  • Free and Easy Installation Process
  • Customizable Security Systems

Low Monthly Fees

SimpliSafe's low monthly fees and absence of a contract are clear standouts in the home security industry. The company's top monitoring package, the Interactive Plan, is priced at $27.99, far below most professional security providers' most affordable option. 

The Interactive Plan includes around-the-clock professional monitoring, lifetime equipment warranty, flood and temperature monitoring, professional verification of alarm triggers, emergency dispatch, and unlimited camera recording for up to 10 cameras. Customers who subscribe to the interactive monitoring plan will also 10 percent off future add-on devices. 

The most typical SimpliSafe monitoring package is standard monitoring at $17.99 per month. This is similar to the Interactive Plan but does not include unlimited camera recordings, video verification, hazard monitoring, and add-on discounts. The standard plan includes a one-year equipment warranty.

Customers can also choose a self-monitoring option that includes a live view and unlimited recordings for up to five cameras for $9.99 per month. This is a unique offering from SimpliSafe. Most home security companies require that the customer purchase a monthly professional monitoring plan. 

Industry Innovations

SimpliSafe is a pioneer in offering do-it-yourself home security systems. SimpliSafe recently redesigned its system to look more sleek and attractive. Sensors including motion detectors, window sensors, door sensors, security cameras, and even the wireless keypad control panel have a modern and user-friendly interface. 

You can also arm and disarm your alarm system through the SimpliSafe app on your mobile phone, along with viewing Simplisafe camera footage.

No Contract or Moving Fees

Something truly remarkable about SimpliSafe's price structure is that it does not attach contracts to its equipment; all customers pay on a month-to-month basis and can cancel at any time without penalty. Basically, no long-term contracts. 

Moving your alarm system is simple and easy. If you plan to move with your equipment, unplug all your devices and disarm your system. Remove all the adhesive strips from your walls. You can also pause service if you have time between homes where you don’t plan on using your security system. 

Once you get to your new home, be sure to update your address in the SimpliSafe mobile app so the monitoring center knows where you are located. 

You can also leave your system for the new residents. The new owners will just need to create an account to activate their one service. Just be sure to cancel your current subscription at your old address. 

60-Day Money-Back Guarantee

In addition, SimpliSafe customers have 60 days to try out equipment and if unsatisfied, can return it to SimpliSafe for a full refund plus return shipping costs. As 30 days is considered a great guarantee in this industry, a 60-day guarantee truly stands out. 

Separate Devices for "Brain" and Keypad 

For an added layer of safety, the "brain" of SimpliSafe's system is located in a device separate from the keypad. If burglars destroy the beeping keypad, the brain will quietly alert the monitoring center.

100% Wireless Equipment

Because the SimpliSafe system is 100 percent wireless, no hard wiring or drilling is required. This is an appealing feature for renters and apartment owners, and also contributes to the aforementioned lack of moving fees.

Free and Easy Installation Process

The free and easy installation process can also be completed without assistance and, in most cases, takes less than 15 minutes. Once the system and sensors are in place, an alarm will sound whenever the control panel is armed and sensors detect burglars breaking in.

Customizable Security Systems

SimpliSafe's equipment and monitoring services can be purchased on its website, eliminating the need to interact with often-pushy security salesmen. All packages come with a base station and keypad. Based on the size of your home and your desired level of security, you can then choose to add on the following devices: 

  • Entry sensors — Sensors used to protect ground floor doors and windows.  
  • Motion sensor — Detects motion in an entire room or hallway. Works great for rooms with more than three or more windows. 
  • Wireless outdoor camera — Video surveillance that works night or day to alert you when visitors approach your driveway or property. 
  • Indoor camera — Monitor your home with indoor cameras that sends an alert when the camera detects motion. 
  • Glassbreak sensor — This device sets off an alarm if it picks up the sound of a smashed window. 
  • Panic button — Contact the monitoring center in the case of an emergency with just a press of the panic button. 
  • Smoke detector — The smoke detector triggers system sirens if it detects smoke or fire. 
  • Temperature sensor — This sensor triggers if your home temperature drops below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • Water sensor — The water sensor detects the beginning of a leak or flood to protect against severe water damage.
  • Key fob — This fob is used to arm and disarm your alarm system at the touch of a button. 
  • Extra 105dB siren — You can purchase an additional siren to place inside or outside the house. 
thumb_down

The Bad

  • Upfront Equipment Costs
  • Basic Security Equipment
  • 3-Year Warranty

Upfront Equipment Costs

As with most do-it-yourself solutions, SimpliSafe requires consumers to buy equipment upfront. This can cost anywhere from $229 to $489. Fortunately, SimpliSafe offers five package options to fit a variety of budgets and needs.

Also important to note: you own this equipment forever after purchasing. Regardless, this price amounts to years of monitoring service from other top-rated alarm companies.

Basic Security Equipment

SimpliSafe equipment is extremely basic in both looks and functionality. The company doesn't offer touchscreen equipment or basic home automation services such as remote door locks, smart lighting/appliances, smart temperature control, and so on. 

Video surveillance is available but requires a Wi-Fi connection. Despite SimpliSafe's sleek new design and mobile app interface, the company needs to catch up to home automation trends.

3-Year Warranty

With SimpliSafe, you're getting basic, no-bells-and-whistles security equipment. And it's all covered with a three-year warranty, as opposed to the lifetime warranty many other providers offer. Most security systems from other companies will offer a lifetime warranty, so it's unfortunate to see SimpliSafe limiting their security systems to only three years.

View Best Home Security Companies

gavel

The Bottom Line

If you're looking for a basic do-it-yourself security option for a reasonable price, or if you're a renter who doesn't want to hardwire a security system or pay a fee each time you move, SimpliSafe is a viable option. 

But if you're looking for cutting-edge technology and want to turn your house into a "smart home," SimpliSafe is not the answer. Plenty of other alarm companies offer those services but expect them with higher prices and strict long-term contracts. Read Simplisafe reviews below before making your final decision.

View Best Home Security Companies

Was this content helpful?
thumb_up Yes thumb_down No

Star Rating

info

2.3

star star star_half star_border star_border

271 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

43%

4 grade

15%

3 grade

4%

2 grade

10%

1 grade

28%

Sentiment Criteria

Value

star star star star_half star_border

Quality

star star star star_half star_border

Service

star star star star_border star_border

Trustworthiness

star star star star_border star_border
cancel

Filter by:

arrow_drop_down

Sort by:

arrow_drop_down
info
star star star star star_border

Jessica J Lipari

Not an accurate assessment.. Outdoor cameras work fine. Slightly overpriced and a little disappointed that my alarm was accidentally set off the other day in the basement and in they never called because I gave them permission to view camera got intruders however only camera I have is in backyard??? Also hard to find English speaking individual. I like having key fob separate from base station, it is convenient.

9 months ago

star star star star star_border

Ralph numank Los Angeles, CA

I've had the SimpliSafe first system for over five years and had no issues, the thing with my system is I didn't have my system monitored by SimpliSafe. I just used the system as a deterrent and got extra sirens in I did have a real break-in. I did have peace of mind and I did have smoke detectors hooked up to the system which was very loud and also the system notified me when someone opened any doors or windows, caught my son coming through the window after hours. I just upgraded to the new system from them and am using the same way that I used the system before. In other words, it's a stand-alone good system in my opinion.

4 years ago

star star star star star_border

Greg Fort Wayne, IN

We got our system a couple of weeks ago, only two live in the house I am in. It showed up in a nice little package and you knew exactly what it was. Started setting it up around 10 o'clock at night and finished by 11:30. I only have three problems with the system and one of them might not even be one. The first problem I did have was with the cameras, they tend to lose connection and will have to call costumer service, the other thing about them is personally I had a hard time setting them up, easily took the longest, it wouldn't read the QR code from my phone, but it did work eventually so maybe it was user error. The second problem I have with simplisafe is the "Pet friendly" motion sensor, we put it in our family room and without fail our 30 pound dog set it off, it should be rated to 50. So, we just moved it to the garage. The last problem (if that) I have is that we've set our alarm off a couple of times and it never went off for more than a minute, but I got a phone notification but no call, I don't know if it's supposed to go off for a minute first but it's something to look into. Other than those minor things I have had great service from the system, works every time and it is pretty sensitive, which for me is a good thing. The price seems very fair. The system was very easy to setup and left no holes, wires, or even adhesive (devices come off clean) on the walls. I would easily recommend this system to anyone who was looking. If you are looking for a "smart home" system, I'd stay away from simplisafe, however, it is simple, and that is perfect for me. If the problem with the cameras can get sorted out this will be a 5 star system.

4 years ago

star star star star star_border

chris murphy Ithaca, NY

Simplisafe has very fair pricing with no pricing games. Other companies may offer installed security systems at very low prices (prices below their cost) but they charge much higher prices each month for monitoring. Also, if you add components to other systems, their prices for individual sensors are much higher than Simplisafe. They hook you with a low price, and then stick it to you. Simplisafe charges a fair price for the components initially, and if you want to add anything later, you pay that same fair price. Other companies may offer a lifetime warranty versus Simplisafe's 3 year warranty, but you are actually paying for that lifetime warranty in higher monitoring charges every month. Another company might charge only $250 for a system comparable to what Simplisafe would charge $500 for, but the other company will charge $20 more each month until the end of time. After 13 months you come out ahead with Simplisafe. Say that after a year you want to add three glassbreak detectors. Simplisafe will charge about $105. Other companies will charge about $210. So between monitoring and a few extra sensors, after three years you've spent a total of $1145. With another company you would have spent about $1720. So your warranty has expired, big deal, even if every single component failed after3 years and 2 months, you would have saved enough with Simpisafe to throw it all out and buy everything new and still come out ahead of the competition. But it won't fail after 3 years. Most of the components will last many years beyond the 3 year warranty. You'll have to change batteries, but electronic devices with no moving parts that don't fail in the first 3 years are likely to last for many many years. I got my first Simplisafe system AFTER my vacation home was burglarized and vandalized. While the guy was out on bail, he tried to break in again, but the Simplisafe system scared him off after he got the door open. I had trouble with my furnace that nobody could seem to fix. I can't tell you how many tens of thousands of dollars of damage were prevented by that Simplisafe low temperature sensor. Don't leave your home without a security system! I can't imagine why they don;t offer natural gas/propane sensors and CO sensors. Home automation is cool and handy, but it's fine to leave that part of the market to the guys who charge the big bucks, but gas sensors and CO sensors can save a building or a life. I trust that they'll be adding those sensors in the future (and I'll be able to add them to my system at a very reasonable cost. Ok, I have one more beef with them. I'm now buying my third system. Who knows how many people bought systems based on my recommendations. But I still don't get a discount on my system.

5 years ago

star star star star star_border

Rebecca Kennedy Tijeras, NM

Customer for over 2 yrs. Simplisafe did for less than $500 what ADT was going to charge us $1500 for. Monthly monitoring is reasonable and the basic package is enough for us. I have always found customer service to be very helpful. Only two negatives for me. 1) The volume of the command station is too low. When you come in through the garage, you can barely hear the beeping to let you know the system is armed and needs to be turned off. If there were an external speaker, I'd buy it. 2) It is difficult to determine which sensor is open or in need of attention. Customer Services has helped me figure it out, but I wish it were easier. Those are the only things that keep this system from a 5 star rating.

6 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

star star star star star_border

Dave Slowbe Westerville, OH

Overall, I like the system. My only problem is that I, like many others in my age group, I have trouble hearing, especially higher pitched sounds. So, when I enter my house, I simply CAN NOT hear the warning beeps of the system. I've talked with Simpli-Safe about offering an adjustable toner, so I can hear the warning beeps. No luck. I can hear the base-station comments fine. I wish the warning beeps were a lower pitch. If they ever offer such a feature on the entry keypad, I'll buy one, and then be able to give them a 5-Star Rating. The given pitch of the warning beeps, is set to be in the normal range of hearing, however, as you get older (millions of us are), we lose that hearing range. Heads UP Simpli-Safe. Either offer a tone control knob on the keypad, or run the warning beeps back through the base station.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Jan Porterfield Milton, FL

We installed Simplisafe several months ago anticipating an extended trip we were taking this summer. It has been great, and we have had numerous security systems in the 24 home we have owned. It was super simple to install, and we had great help from their customer service to do the install....operation is easy...push a button and the system tells you your status and if any of the system is down. When we went on our trip we knew we were covered and that we would be notified if there was a problem. The only problem we have had is the little key fob my husband carries with his keys in his pocket....twice the keys and the fob align right and the alarm button gets pushed by the keys...the first time we caught it in time to disarm, the second time we didn't and we had a knock at the door by 2 policemen, after explaining what happened it was fine and my husband is no longer allowed to carry the fob on his key ring. All in all, that was a very convencing test of the system and we are feeling even safer in our home now.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Victoria Odessa, MO

We purchased for our home in Fl. We live most of year in Mo. Love cost, install, we were broken into, they contacted us fast but took the police an hour to show up. It did what it was to do. It got them out!!! I recently see they now have an interior camera which I will be adding. I would love to see outside wireless camera. My only complaint is our home is outside city, wifi service is not as good as city. Our system only works near the front door. I have my keypad right on the half wall at the front door, with everythg else. Which it would be easy for theif to take the system with them, fortunaetly they took the tv, never explored the rest of the house. I want an outside camera, may have to add from another company.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Dave Carpenter Germantown, MD

We have had this system for a couple of years now. It works perfectly for our needs. Like that we can put it on HOME when we leave and leave the dogs there and the doors and windows are protected against entry, but the dogs can move around inside without setting off the alarm. It has always come through. Very quick response. We did add cameras from another source to supplement. The only problem we have had was my husband had the key fob in his pocket. He turned it on without being aware of it. We were out and driving, so he did not answer the call figuring we would see who called once we were parked. So...the company called our house. We had a dog sitter who did not answer our phone. Alarm continued to howl, police came..scared our poor sitter to dealth. All was ok..but we do not carry the fob with us anymore!

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Oscar Brea, CA

Have not have any issues concerning equipment or it's service. I recently started using the service this month. I had put it off hold for over a year, because of the COVID response to stay home. When I finally set it up, I called the operator and went step by step how to set up my alarm system with no qualms or problems. Need more employees to fill in to less call waiting and a stronger customer repose time.

3 years ago

star star star star star_border

Jeff San Jose, CA

I've been a customer for almost 10 years. They have their issues but all and all have been pretty good. If you've seen my other reviews I am a stickler for good support. They don't have that. I also have had issues with their previous system, errors going dead but since upgrading to the new system I've not had as many. For the price and flexibility a great buy.

4 years ago

star star star star star_border

Michael Wolfe Birdsboro, PA

Very easy to install and get working, it took me a half hour. Video Doorbell and indoor cameras work very well and indoor camera doubles as motion sensor. No outdoor camera available and app is basic. Got 5 motion sensors, two water, camera and doorbell for less than $500. Simple solution for dogs and cats with motion sensors. Good customer service. Good value for the money.

5 years ago

star star star star star_border

John Gray, GA

Easy to install, instructions are lacking some key information though. Didn't explain that I would continue to get sensor failure notifications until I activated all sensors. Had left a couple door sensors in the box to install later and they kept giving me error messages. Took two calls to support to find that out. If it wasn't for that and the long waits for support (20-30 minutes), I'd give 5 stars. Super easy to set up and responds well so far. I didn't expect top of the line technology so not disappointed with what I have.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

RICK Fort Worth, TX

SIMPLI SAFE IS THE WAY TO GO FOR AN EFFECTIVE AND INEXPENSIVE WAY TO GUARD YOUR HOUSE. WHETHER YOU USE THE COMPLETE SET UP OF USE SOME ON THE ENTRY AND EXIT DOORS WITH A FEW MOTION DETECTORS YOU CAN HAVE COMPLETE ASSURANCE THAT SOME ATTENTION WILL BE DRAWN TO THE ALARM. I GET A SENSE OF RELIEF WHEN I OPEN THE DOOR AND THE FAMILIAR "COUNTDOWN" TO THE ALARM BEGINS, READY FOR YOU TO USE YOUR CODE TO SHUT IT OF BEFORE IT TOTALLY ACTIVATES THE SIREN.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Allen Huntsville, AL

We have been very happy with the system. It was easy to install and works great. The only reason that I gave a 9 instead of a 10 is that I wish the camera had a battery option (but I suspect battery life would be an issue). There are some additional perks with the more expensive (but still cheaper than ADT) monitoring option, but the basic $14.95 works great for us.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

James Graczykk NY

I've had this service for 2 years now and it's the best security system I've ever owned. (had adt and power trust previously) Accurate, no false reads and lightning quick response when triggered. (Burglary, fire and carbon monoxide) My only problem would be with their customer service response time, hence, the 9* rating. Other than that, absolutely fantastic!

7 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Lena munn Elmira, NY

I have had simpli for going on 10 years. It is super easy to use and set up. I love that you have the option to get door and window sensors. They are very useful when you have children that open doors. Somewhat a pro and a con is that if the alarm goes off they call you first and then they call your backups before sending police. It's a pro if nothing is actually wrong and you don't want cops showing up at your house. It's a con in the other sense like if something is actually wrong they call 2 people before sending the cops! double edged sword I suppose. I really think it's a great company though. Customer service is always friendly and helpful.

1 year ago

star star star star star_border

Bass4worship Sebring, FL

I been using Simplisafe over 5 years now. Never had a problem. I'm still using the very first system they started with. I was going to upgrade but I see most having some problems with with the newer system so I'm staying with my older model for now. The only thing I would like to change is the keypad.

4 years ago

star star star star star_border

guenter Yuma, AZ

very quick response by monitoring service when alarm goes off, even when prior notice of battery change is planned and action is called in to the monitoring service. sliding windows can be one drawback for the system and half of the window needs to secured some other way.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Karen Griffith VA

We have had this system for several years and are completely satisfied. We have only had one false alarm, from one motion sensor, cause unknown. The system is easy to install, the service from the alarm company is excellent. We have accidentally set off the alarm twice and the alarm company's response was immediate.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Gary E Ruppert

Easy to install. Low monthly fees. Get an extra touch panel because the key fobs don't show you if the alarm system is set. We keep one in the console of the vehicle. Sometimes the key fob did not set or turn off the alarm. With the extra panel you KNOW!

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Dr. & Mrs. D. Troy Pruitt Lincoln, IL

Quick delivery and easy install. Shadows through windows set of motion detectors but adjusted units and operates great!! 2 false alarms, but service was quick to contact us. Recommended to family and friends as a great value and effective coverage. Cats do not set off alarm.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

fredmarler Crossville, TN

System working great. Easy to use. Suggestion: letters to small for senor citizens. Need reading glasses or Big Eye magnifying glass. Key chain unit to large for men to carry in their pockets. Need smaller size. I would re-buy and also recommend to family and others.

6 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Sirdriz77 Fairfield, CT

I currently have simplisafe in my home and I love that I was able to easily install it myself and that adding additional components is easy and the reasonably priced for what you get. I especially love that they have a water leak monitor which really gives added peace of mind. The app is also good and easy to use. The only negative is that it can be buggy at times (especially during updates) and I had to swap out my base station because the first one they sent kept having issues.

1 year ago

star star star star star_border

Al Diggs Westerville, OH

I have had this system installed in my Condo for three months ,no problem ,good customer service , also there is a security camera available , that works with my smartphone .good value for the cost $14.95 p/m

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Robert Wilson Amherst, NH

Excellent engineering. Very easy install. Sketchy instruction manual - needs work. Excellent Email/Blog response. Don't know about phone - didn't try that. No regrets purchasing.

7 years ago

star star star star star_border

Paul Jordan

Easy installation with or without cameras. Add as many or as little parts as you feel comfortable with. Great response to alarm situation when my wife left a dog in the house and the motion sensor was set off.

7 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Phillip Scott Abilene, TX

Easy to install works well with iPad an$ phones android, alarm company is fairly inexpensive but response time is slightly slow on checking for alarm goin* off. Outdoor camera works well and let# you know when there is movement. Night vision is very good. You do need either extra batteries or the solar charger

1 year ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Shannon Efteland Knoxville, TN

The system is fairly easy to set up but can be time consuming to set up and maintain. The customer service is excellent. The products work as advertised and expected. The monitoring is effecting and works when an alarm is triggered.

1 year ago

star star star star star_border

Don Orlando, FL

We learned ONLY through trial and error that the camera does NOT work with 5G network. Had to return camera. Other than that it satisfies our needs.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Ken Roberts Rock Hill, SC

Simple install for someone who is not IT type. Quick response to alarms and no hassle replacing bad parts. System tell you if you have a bad sensor when trying to set alarm.

6 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Liz Washington, DC

Customer Review Video

1 year ago

star star star star star_border

Mary Ellen Fox

I have had Simplisafe for 2 years. It was very easy to install and has worked well. If there was a problem it was handled quickly.

6 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

David T Draper, UT

I paid for simplisafe for my mom to protect her and allow her to feel more safe in her home and connected. It has been great for her as she ages. I would recommend.

4 years ago

star star star star star_border

Marshall A Boucher Dover, FL

excellent overall. I recommend. Motion sensors required contact cement to properly adhere to walls.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Sheldon Michel Boynton Beach, FL

Wish the keypad was lit.Hard to read in a medium lit room. Otherwise fantastic system.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

William L Scott Chatsworth, GA

Had the system only a short time but well-designed and very easy to install. I recommend it.

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

mait stewart

love it....no frills but very easy to use. does what i expected...can't beat $14.99/month!

6 years ago

star star star star star_border

Tom New Haven, CT

Easy to install. Everything worked right out of the box.

7 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star_border

Jim Ahmad Cordova, TN

Very professional and informative customer service experience with their team.

1 year ago