SimpliSafe vs. Alert 360

Author picture
Written by
Edited by

Quick and easy. Get matched with a Home Security partner.

    SimpliSafe and Alert 360 comparison

    If you’re choosing between SimpliSafe and Alert 360, it’s important to know the differences between the two. There are many similarities between the two, but there are also some crucial differences that will make one a better choice for you. It’s essential to know all the options when choosing your home security provider.

    Installation and cost

    simplisafe logoalert 360 logo
    Installation typeDIYProfessional
    Installation feeFree$99 to $199
    Upfront costBuild-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoringEquipment included in monthly fee
    Trial period60-day return windowNone listed
    Contract termsNo-contract options available36 months; no-contract options available if equipment purchased upfront
    simplisafe logoDIYFreeBuild-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoring60-day return windowNo-contract options available
    alert 360 logoProfessional$99 to $199Equipment included in monthly feeNone listed36 months; no-contract options available if equipment purchased upfront

    Monitoring plans and pricing

    simplisafe logoalert 360 logo
    Monitoring price range$15 to $25$49.95 to $59.95
    Monitoring optionsProfessional or self-monitoredProfessional
    Self-monitoringFree
    Upgraded self-monitoringNot offered
    24/7 professional monitoring$15/monthStarting at $49.95
    Upgraded professional monitoring$25/month$59.95
    simplisafe logo$15 to $25Professional or self-monitoredFreeNot offered$15/month$25/month
    alert 360 logo$49.95 to $59.95ProfessionalStarting at $49.95$59.95

    Security equipment

    simplisafe logoalert 360 logo
    Wired or wireless?WirelessWireless
    Camera optionsIndoor and outdoor camerasIndoor and outdoor cameras
    Video doorbell
    Control panel
    Motion sensor
    Entry sensor
    Glass break sensor
    Keychain remote
    SirenAudible panel siren
    Panic buttonMedical panic button device; silent panic button activation from control panel
    Yard sign
    simplisafe logoWirelessIndoor and outdoor cameras
    alert 360 logoWirelessIndoor and outdoor camerasAudible panel sirenMedical panic button device; silent panic button activation from control panel

    Smart-home features

    simplisafe logoalert 360 logo
    Smart locks
    Smart lights
    Smart thermostat
    Garage door control
    Temperature sensor
    Water sensor
    Smoke detectorNot listed
    CO detector
    simplisafe logo
    alert 360 logoNot listed

    Technology

    simplisafe logoalert 360 logo
    Mobile app
    Mobile app monitoring
    iOS rating4.84.3
    Android rating4.33.7
    Notification/alert optionsPush, text and emailEmail and text
    Home automation capabilities
    Voice integration
    Amazon Alexa
    Google Home
    Other integrationsApple Watch, August LocksRachio Smart Sprinkler, Sonos Wireless Speakers
    simplisafe logo4.84.3Push, text and emailApple Watch, August Locks
    alert 360 logo4.33.7Email and textRachio Smart Sprinkler, Sonos Wireless Speakers

    Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

    simplisafe logoalert 360 logo
    Overall star rating3.81.5
    Verified customer reviewsSimpliSafe reviewsAlert 360 reviews
    simplisafe logo3.8SimpliSafe reviews
    alert 360 logo1.5Alert 360 reviews

    All information accurate as of publishing date.

    Quick and easy. Get matched with a Home Security partner.

      About SimpliSafe

      SimpliSafe is known for its easy-to-install, wireless DIY home security devices. The company offers professional installation if you decide you need some help. Customers can choose 24/7 professional monitoring with no contract required or self-monitoring.

      In addition to standard home security equipment such as motion sensors and cameras, SimpliSafe offers several smart-home integration devices such as temperature, smoke and CO sensors, smart locks and panic buttons. You can return your system within 60 days if you’re not satisfied. SimpliSafe also sells refurbished systems at discounted prices.

      SimpliSafe Plans

      • The Foundation includes a base station, one entry sensor, a keypad and one motion sensor. It costs $229.
      • The Essentials includes the base station, one motion sensor, three entry sensors and a keypad. The equipment package costs $259.
      • The Hearth includes one base station, a keypad, one motion sensor, a siren, a key fob, three entry sensors and a smoke detector. It’s available for $374.
      • The Knox includes a base station, six entry sensors, two motion sensors, a keypad, a key fob, a siren and a smoke detector. It costs $449.
      • The Haven has the most equipment of SimpliSafe’s packages — it includes the base station, a key fob, a siren, a panic button, four entry sensors, a keypad, a smoke detector, two motion sensors, a temperature sensor and a water sensor. This comprehensive equipment package costs $489.
      • Build Your Own System starts at $184 for a keypad and base station. You can then purchase additional equipment as needed.

      What SimpliSafe customers say

      Customers frequently mention how easy it is to install the SimpliSafe system and say they enjoy using the app to monitor their system. Some customers experienced issues with equipment functionality.

      I love Simplisafe. It is very reliable and easy to operate for a senior citizen that I am. It was very easy to install and did not take much time to do so. I would recommend this system to everyone."

      Gerry of Sterling Heights, Michigan

      About Alert 360

      Alert 360 customizes full smart-home security and interactive home automation systems. It has a comprehensive selection of devices with Z-wave compatibility. The company offers professional installation and 24/7 monitoring. If you suffer a loss due to a home break-in or fire when your system is on, Alert 360 will reimburse your insurance deductible (up to $1,360). All plans come with a free app, and you can get free monitoring when you refer friends.

      Alert 360 plans

      All plans include 24/7 alarm monitoring, though professional installation costs extra. Prices quotes are for Dallas, Texas, and may vary by location.

      • Complete Smart Home includes a touch-screen panel, a video doorbell, a keyless door lock, one motion sensor, three window sensors and a wireless HD indoor camera. It costs $54.95 a month.
      • Door Command includes a touch-screen panel, a video doorbell, three window sensors, one motion sensor and a keyless door lock. It costs $49.95 a month.
      • Smart Door Lock comes with a touch-screen panel, a keyless door lock, one motion sensor and three window sensors. It runs $44.95 per month with monitoring.
      • Smart Home Video comes with a touch-screen panel, wireless indoor camera, one motion sensor and three window sensors. It costs $44.95 per month.

      What Alert 360 customers say

      Alert360 has mixed reviews on ConsumerAffairs, with satisfied customers describing professional service and saying their complaints were resolved. Other customers express concern over equipment functionality and difficulty canceling their contract.

      [Jacob] did an incredible job today installing a deadbolt on our front door! He arrived early, was efficient and professional. Thank you for a great experience! The quality and level of service Alert 360 provides is outstanding!"

      Peter of Tulsa, OK

      Bottom line: SimpliSafe or Alert 360?

      SimpliSafe has options for DIY installation and monitoring with no contract required, while Alert 360 requires professional installation and monitoring of its systems with a 36-month contract. Alert 360 focuses on smart-home automation; SimpliSafe offers just a few home automation components.

      • SimpliSafe is best for customers who want a DIY option and a choice between professional or self-monitoring with no contract.
      • Alert 360 is best for customers looking for a complete home security and automation solution with professional installation.
      Did you find this article helpful? |
      Share this article