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
Installation type
DIY
Professional
Installation fee
Free
$99 to $199
Upfront cost
Build-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoring
Equipment included in monthly fee
Trial period
60-day return window
None listed
Contract terms
No-contract options available
36 months; no-contract options available if equipment purchased upfront
DIY
Free
Build-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoring
60-day return window
No-contract options available
Professional
$99 to $199
Equipment included in monthly fee
None listed
36 months; no-contract options available if equipment purchased upfront
Monitoring plans and pricing
Monitoring price range
$15 to $25
$49.95 to $59.95
Monitoring options
Professional or self-monitored
Professional
Self-monitoring
Free
—
Upgraded self-monitoring
Not offered
—
24/7 professional monitoring
$15/month
Starting at $49.95
Upgraded professional monitoring
$25/month
$59.95
$15 to $25
Professional or self-monitored
Free
Not offered
$15/month
$25/month
$49.95 to $59.95
Professional
—
—
Starting at $49.95
$59.95
Security equipment
Wired or wireless?
Wireless
Wireless
Camera options
Indoor and outdoor cameras
Indoor and outdoor cameras
Video doorbell
Control panel
Motion sensor
Entry sensor
Glass break sensor
Keychain remote
Siren
Audible panel siren
Panic button
Medical panic button device; silent panic button activation from control panel
Yard sign
Wireless
Indoor and outdoor cameras
Wireless
Indoor and outdoor cameras
Audible panel siren
Medical panic button device; silent panic button activation from control panel
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."
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!"
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.
