When choosing between SimpliSafe and ADT for home security, you're comparing two fundamentally different approaches: DIY affordability versus professional installation and monitoring. Both companies have carved out significant market share, but they cater to different homeowner needs and budgets. This comprehensive comparison will help you determine which system best protects your home and family.
At a Glance: Key Differences
| Feature | SimpliSafe | ADT |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Monitoring | $17.99 - $27.99 | $45.99 - $62.99 |
| Installation | DIY (30-60 min) | Professional (2-4 hours) |
| Contracts | No contracts | 36-month minimum |
| Equipment Cost | $99 - $489 | $0 upfront (included) |
| Cellular Backup | Built-in (AT&T/Verizon) | Built-in (Verizon) |
SimpliSafe: The DIY Champion
SimpliSafe Home Security System
Starting at: $17.99/month monitoring + equipment costs
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners, renters, tech-savvy users
Pros
- No contracts or long-term commitments
- Easy DIY installation in under an hour
- Affordable monthly monitoring rates
- Excellent mobile app with intuitive controls
- Wide range of compatible smart home devices
- Professional monitoring with fast response times
Cons
- Equipment costs add up quickly
- Limited customization for complex homes
- No local technician support
- Sensors can be somewhat bulky
SimpliSafe has revolutionized home security by making professional monitoring accessible to everyone. Founded in 2006, the company built its reputation on three core principles: affordability, simplicity, and no contracts. Their approach has resonated with millions of homeowners who want reliable security without the traditional barriers of high costs and long commitments.
The SimpliSafe system starts with a base station that connects to your home's Wi-Fi and includes built-in cellular backup. The wireless sensors communicate with the base station using SimpliSafe's proprietary radio frequency, ensuring reliable communication even if your internet goes down. Installation is genuinely straightforward – most components use adhesive strips or simple mounting screws.
SimpliSafe Equipment and Features
SimpliSafe's equipment lineup covers all essential security needs. The Entry Sensor monitors doors and windows, the Motion Sensor detects movement in rooms, and the Panic Button provides immediate emergency alerts. Their newer Smart Alarm Indoor Camera includes person detection and two-way audio, while the Video Doorbell Pro offers 1080p video with HDR.
What sets SimpliSafe apart is their Secret Alerts feature, which sends silent notifications to your phone when specific sensors trigger. This is perfect for monitoring when kids come home from school or if someone enters a restricted area. The system also includes environmental monitoring with smoke, CO, freeze, and water sensors.
ADT: The Professional Security Leader
ADT Professional Security System
Starting at: $45.99/month with 36-month contract
Best for: Large homes, business owners, those wanting full-service support
Pros
- Professional installation and ongoing support
- Established monitoring infrastructure (150+ years)
- Local technician availability
- Advanced commercial-grade equipment
- Comprehensive home automation integration
- Theft protection guarantee
Cons
- Expensive monthly monitoring fees
- Requires 36-month contracts
- Professional installation scheduling required
- Less flexibility for system changes
- Outdated mobile app interface
ADT represents the traditional approach to home security, and there's something to be said for their 150+ years of experience in the security industry. They've protected homes through world wars, economic depressions, and technological revolutions. This institutional knowledge translates into robust systems and proven monitoring procedures.
When you choose ADT, you're getting more than just equipment – you're buying into a comprehensive security ecosystem. Their professional technicians assess your home's unique vulnerabilities and design a custom security layout. They handle everything from running wires to configuring your system and teaching you how to use it.
ADT Equipment and Professional Installation
ADT's equipment portfolio is extensive and commercial-grade. Their touchscreen control panels feature intuitive interfaces, and their sensors use advanced technology like encrypted wireless communication and tamper detection. The cameras offer high-resolution recording with cloud storage, and their smart doorbell cameras integrate seamlessly with the security system.
Professional installation is where ADT truly shines. Technicians arrive with a truck full of equipment and tools, ready to handle any installation challenge. They'll run wires through walls, install cameras at optimal angles, and ensure every sensor has strong signal strength. The installation includes a comprehensive walkthrough of your system's features.
Pricing Breakdown: Total Cost of Ownership
The pricing comparison between SimpliSafe and ADT is more complex than monthly fees alone. Let's break down the true cost over three years:
| Cost Component | SimpliSafe (3 Years) | ADT (3 Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | $200 - $500 | $0 (included) |
| Installation | $0 (DIY) | $99 - $199* |
| Monthly Monitoring | $647 - $1,007 | $1,655 - $2,267 |
| Total 3-Year Cost | $847 - $1,507 | $1,754 - $2,466 |
Monitoring Services: Response Times and Procedures
Both companies operate UL-Listed monitoring centers with 24/7 staffing, but their approaches differ significantly. SimpliSafe's monitoring centers use advanced dispatch algorithms that can contact emergency services in as little as 30 seconds after an alarm. They verify alarms by calling your primary and secondary contacts before dispatching authorities.
ADT's monitoring infrastructure is more traditional but equally effective. With over 9 monitoring centers across the country, they provide redundant coverage and can maintain service even during natural disasters. ADT's monitoring agents are trained to gather additional information during alarm calls, which can help emergency responders prepare for different scenarios.
Both companies offer varying levels of monitoring service. SimpliSafe's Standard Monitoring ($17.99/month) includes 24/7 professional monitoring, while their Interactive Monitoring ($27.99/month) adds smartphone alerts and camera recording. ADT's Traditional Monitoring starts at $45.99/month, with their Control plan at $52.99/month adding smartphone control.
Mobile Apps and Smart Home Integration
SimpliSafe's mobile app consistently receives high ratings for its clean interface and reliable functionality. You can arm/disarm your system, view camera feeds, check sensor status, and receive real-time alerts. The app also includes a Timeline feature that shows all system activity throughout the day.
ADT's app has improved significantly in recent years but still feels somewhat dated compared to SimpliSafe's offering. Basic functions like arming and disarming work well, but advanced features can be buried in menus. However, ADT's app does offer more granular control over system settings.
For smart home integration, SimpliSafe works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and August locks. Their integration is straightforward – you can arm/disarm with voice commands and receive status updates. ADT offers broader smart home integration through their Command platform, supporting thermostats, lights, locks, and garage doors from multiple manufacturers.
Customer Service and Support
Customer service is where ADT's traditional approach shows its strengths. With local offices in most major markets, ADT can provide in-person support when needed. Their phone support is available 24/7, and technicians can schedule service calls for equipment issues. The downside is that this level of service comes with higher costs and sometimes longer wait times.
SimpliSafe takes a more modern approach to customer service, relying heavily on online resources, chat support, and phone assistance during business hours. Their help center includes detailed troubleshooting guides and video tutorials. While they don't have local technicians, their remote support team can often resolve issues through the mobile app.
Equipment Quality and Reliability
Both companies use reliable equipment, but there are notable differences. SimpliSafe's sensors are designed for easy DIY installation, which sometimes means they're bulkier than professionally installed alternatives. However, their equipment is remarkably reliable – sensors can run for 3-5 years on a single battery, and the system rarely experiences false alarms.
ADT's equipment is typically more compact and aesthetically pleasing since it's professionally installed. Their hardwired components don't require battery changes, and their wireless sensors use advanced radio technology for reliable communication. ADT also offers specialized equipment like glass-break sensors and beam-break detectors for unique security needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SimpliSafe or ADT?
SimpliSafe is significantly cheaper than ADT. SimpliSafe's monitoring starts at $17.99/month with no contracts, while ADT's professional monitoring starts at $45.99/month with 36-month contracts. Over three years, SimpliSafe typically costs $847-$1,507 compared to ADT's $1,754-$2,466.
Does SimpliSafe require professional installation?
No, SimpliSafe is designed for DIY installation and takes most users 30-60 minutes to set up. The system includes detailed instructions, and most sensors use adhesive mounting or simple screws. ADT requires professional installation, which can take 2-4 hours but ensures optimal placement and configuration.
Which has better customer service, SimpliSafe or ADT?
ADT has a slight edge in customer service due to local technician support and 24/7 phone assistance. They can provide in-person service calls when needed. SimpliSafe offers good support but relies more on online resources, chat support, and phone assistance during business hours.
Can I take SimpliSafe with me if I move?
Yes, one of SimpliSafe's biggest advantages is portability. Since there are no contracts and installation is DIY, you can easily pack up your system and reinstall it at your new home. ADT systems are typically hardwired and tied to specific properties, making moves more complicated.
Do both systems work during power outages?
Yes, both SimpliSafe and ADT systems include battery backup that can power the system for 8-24 hours during outages. Both also include cellular backup communication, so they can still contact monitoring centers even if your internet goes down. This ensures continuous protection during emergencies.
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choose SimpliSafe if: You want affordable, no-contract monitoring; prefer DIY installation; value system portability; have a straightforward home layout; or want to minimize long-term costs. SimpliSafe is perfect for renters, budget-conscious homeowners, and tech-savvy users who don't mind managing their own system.
Choose ADT if: You prefer professional installation and ongoing support; want comprehensive smart home integration; have a complex home layout requiring custom solutions; value local technician availability; or don't mind paying premium prices for full-service security. ADT works best for homeowners who want a "set it and forget it" solution.
Both systems provide excellent security monitoring and can effectively protect your home. Your choice ultimately depends on your budget, technical comfort level, and preference for DIY versus professional service. Consider your long-term needs – if you might move frequently, SimpliSafe's portability is invaluable. If you want maximum peace of mind with professional support, ADT's comprehensive approach justifies the higher cost.