Updated: March 2025
Author: Wendy Sheehan Donnell
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5 – Outstanding
Looking for a smart home security solution that doesn’t lock you into expensive contracts or saddle you with high monthly fees? The SimpliSafe Home Security System delivers powerful, customizable protection with no long-term commitment, making it a top contender for homeowners and renters alike.
Quick Overview
- Starting Price: $249.96
- Monitoring Plans: From $20/month
- Contract Required: No
- Installation: DIY or optional professional install
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Cellular
- Editor’s Verdict: Best no-contract home security system
Why Choose SimpliSafe?
SimpliSafe stands out in a crowded market with its contract-free, flexible approach to home security. It’s designed for people who want robust protection without being tied down. From burglary and intrusion detection to fire, flood, and freeze alerts, SimpliSafe provides comprehensive peace of mind—all easily controlled via an intuitive mobile app or keypad.
SimpliSafe has earned high praise over the years—including multiple Editors’ Choice awards from PCMag and consistent recognition as a reader favorite.
SimpliSafe Packages and Pricing
Whether you’re securing a studio apartment or a multi-level home, SimpliSafe has a solution for you. The system is available in seven pre-configured packages and can also be customized to suit unique needs.
Pre-Built Packages
- The Foundation ($249.96): Ideal for small spaces, includes a base station, keypad, one motion sensor, and one entry sensor.
- The Haven ($519.86): A comprehensive setup with 14 components, including sensors for motion, entry, smoke, carbon monoxide, water, temperature, a panic button, and a loud 105-decibel siren.
SimpliSafe often runs promotions—at the time of writing, all packages are discounted by 40% and come with a free indoor camera.
Expandable Hardware Options
Need more than what’s in the box? SimpliSafe lets you expand your system with:
- Entry Sensors: $14.99 each
- Glass Break Sensors: $39.99
- Keypads: $69.99 each
- Smoke & CO Detectors: $59.99
- Water Leak Sensors: $19.99
- Temperature Sensors: $29.99
Camera options include:
- Indoor Cameras: $99 (wired), $139.99 (wireless)
- Outdoor Camera: $189.99 (1080p, 140° field of view)
- Video Doorbell Pro: $169
- SimpliSafe Smart Lock: $119.99 (keyless entry)
You can mix and match components to tailor protection to your floor plan.
Monitoring Plans & Features
SimpliSafe offers three monitoring plans:
1. Standard Plan ($20/month)
Includes 24/7 professional monitoring. When a sensor is triggered, SimpliSafe contacts you. If you’re unreachable or provide an incorrect safe word, emergency services are dispatched.
2. Fast Protect Plan ($30/month)
Everything in the Standard Plan plus:
- Live Guard Protection: Agents view live video during alarms and can communicate with intruders via the camera.
- Secret Alerts: Get notified silently when certain areas (like liquor cabinets) are accessed.
- Lifetime Equipment Warranty and 10% Off Hardware.
3. Self-Monitoring ($10/month)
Includes unlimited camera recordings and 30-day cloud storage. No professional monitoring is included.
SimpliSafe also allows you to use the system without a subscription. You’ll still get local alarms but must contact authorities yourself.
Installation & Setup
Installing SimpliSafe is simple:
- DIY Setup: No wiring or drilling. Peel and stick sensors in place and use the keypad or app to name and pair them.
- Pro Install Option: Starts at $124.99 if you prefer professional help.
The system’s sleek base station features battery backup (up to 24 hours), cellular communication, and Wi-Fi support. You can also use it entirely over cellular if you prefer not to connect it to your network.
Design and Usability
SimpliSafe’s hardware is thoughtfully designed. The base station (available in Obsidian or Cloud) glows blue when armed and pulses when something needs attention. The keypad includes a 2.5-inch LCD, responsive proximity sensor, and supports up to four guest PINs plus a duress PIN for emergencies.
Everything can also be managed through the SimpliSafe mobile app (iOS and Android) or web dashboard, which allows:
- Arming/disarming remotely
- Reviewing event logs
- Renaming sensors
- Adjusting siren volume and delay times
The system even works with Apple Watch, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home for basic voice commands like “arm away” or “check system status.” Voice disarming is intentionally disabled for security.
Performance and Daily Use
SimpliSafe operates in three modes:
- Home Mode: Activates entry sensors only
- Away Mode: Activates entry and motion sensors
- Test Mode: For setup and sensor checks
If a sensor is tripped, you have up to 250 seconds to enter your PIN. If not, the alarm sounds and SimpliSafe contacts you before dispatching emergency services.
In years of testing, sensor reliability has remained strong, with excellent responsiveness and zero false alarms. Notifications arrive promptly, and the monitoring team has consistently responded swiftly and professionally.
Limitations: What You Don’t Get
Unlike some rivals like Vivint or Abode, SimpliSafe doesn’t support third-party smart devices or integrations with Zigbee, Z-Wave, or IFTTT. That means no unified automation of lights, locks, and thermostats—unless you purchase SimpliSafe’s own branded accessories.
This limitation is intentional. SimpliSafe’s philosophy prioritizes security and simplicity over smart home complexity. However, basic integration with August Smart Lock, Alexa, and Google Assistant is supported.
Verdict: Is SimpliSafe Worth It?
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, reliable home security system without long-term contracts, SimpliSafe is one of the best choices available today. It combines affordability, fast installation, and strong performance in a single package. The system’s modular nature allows users to start small and scale as needed, while its monitoring plans offer excellent value and flexibility.
For households deeply invested in smart home ecosystems, more integrated options like Ring Alarm Pro or Abode might be better suited. But for everyone else—especially those who value simplicity, portability, and affordability—SimpliSafe is a top-tier solution.
Final Rating: 4.5 / 5
Best For: Renters, homeowners, and anyone seeking a no-contract security system
Not Ideal For: Users wanting advanced smart home automation
Tags: SimpliSafe review 2025, home security system, no contract security, DIY installation, affordable home alarm, SimpliSafe vs ADT, SimpliSafe camera, Fast Protect monitoring plan
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