SimpliSafe vs. ADT Blu

SimpliSafe vs. ADT Blu: What's the difference?

SimpliSafe has carved out a strong position in the affordable DIY security space. Its sensor catalog covers both intrusion detection and environmental threats, and higher-tier plans include proactive live-agent intervention that most DIY providers don't offer.

ADT Blu is ADT's line of DIY home security products, priced for budget-conscious buyers. It supports both self-monitoring and professional monitoring, and its packages are customizable. The ADT+ app has earned strong reviews and there are no long-term contracts required.

What we like about SimpliSafe

• Active Guard technology: The top-tier plans pair live security agents with AI to proactively deter intruders using two-way audio and camera sirens — a capability typically reserved for premium professional security providers.
• Scalable affordability: A low entry price and month-to-month service make it easy to start with a basic setup and add sensors or cameras as your needs change.

What to consider: Professional monitoring costs more than comparable DIY options like Ring and Cove. Setup is entirely self-directed, so you'll need to handle sensor placement yourself — though the process is designed to be simple.

What we like about ADT Blu

• Hands-on security: Customers can build their own package, handle installation and choose between self-monitoring or professional 24/7 ADT monitoring — giving them full control over how their system operates.
• Month-to-month contract: No long-term commitment is required. Cancel your recurring payments at any time to end your subscription.

What to consider: Installation and setup are DIY only, and the product lineup is relatively limited. ADT Blu equipment is also not compatible with other ADT product lines.

SimpliSafe vs. ADT Blu: System and installation

Both systems are wireless and require no tools to install. SimpliSafe centers on a cellular-backed base station, while ADT Blu connects all devices through the ADT Base and is managed via the ADT+ app.

SimpliSafe system and installation

• System type: SimpliSafe runs on a wireless, modular setup anchored by a base station with a built-in cellular chip and a 24-hour backup battery, keeping the system functional during power outages or tampering attempts.
• Installation options: DIY setup requires no tools — most sensors attach with adhesive strips. If you'd prefer hands-on help, professional installation is available through third-party services like OnTech, typically starting around $125.

SimpliSafe equipment costs

SimpliSafe runs frequent sales and offers competitive pricing across its product range. Prebuilt packages start around $250 for the basic Foundation kit and can exceed $700 for larger kits that include multiple cameras and environmental sensors. You can also build a custom system by purchasing individual components a la carte.

ADT Blu system and installation

• System type: ADT Blu is a fully wireless system. All devices connect to a central hub called the ADT Base, and you can control and monitor everything through the ADT+ app.
• Installation options: DIY only. The setup process is designed to be simple and straightforward, and a 24/7 help line is available if you run into questions.

ADT Blu equipment costs

Bundles range from $199 to $699 and can be customized to fit your needs. Individual components are also available for purchase a la carte.

SimpliSafe vs. ADT Blu: Monitoring plan costs

Neither company requires a long-term contract. SimpliSafe's professional monitoring starts at $21.99/month, while ADT Blu offers both self-monitoring and professional plans beginning at $9.99/month.

SimpliSafe monitoring plans

• Self Monitoring: $9.99 per month. Remote arm/disarm, scheduled arming, unlimited camera recordings, text and push notifications for alarms, warnings, camera activity and more.
• Standard Monitoring: $21.99 per month. Covers 24/7 police dispatch and cellular backup, but does not include video verification or camera recording.
• Core (formerly Fast Protect): $31.99 per month. Adds visual alarm verification, unlimited camera recording and "Intruder Intervention" for indoor cameras.
• Pro / Pro Plus: $49.99 to $79.99 per month. Adds "Active Guard Outdoor Protection," which lets live agents monitor outdoor cameras overnight (Pro) or around the clock (Pro Plus) and intervene via two-way audio.

Contract commitment: SimpliSafe does not require a long-term contract. All plans renew month-to-month and you can cancel or switch tiers at any time without penalty.

ADT Blu monitoring plans

• Video Connect: $9.99/month. Includes support for unlimited devices, smart notifications and access to the ADT+ app.
• Self-Protect: $14.99/month. Includes everything in Video Connect, plus the ability to arm and disarm your system remotely and locally.
• Pro-Protect (without cameras): $24.99/month. Builds on Self-Protect with an emergency phrase feature, Alarm Messenger, MySafety and cellular backup.
• Pro-Protect (with cameras): $34.99/month. Includes all Pro-Protect features plus video verification. Life safety professional monitoring can be added to this tier for an extra $3/month.

Contract commitment: ADT Blu does not lock you into a long-term agreement. Monitoring plans renew on a month-to-month basis and can be canceled at any time.

» COMPARE: SimpliSafe vs. Cove

SimpliSafe vs. ADT Blu: Equipment and technology

SimpliSafe brings a wider sensor lineup and live-agent intervention to the table, while ADT Blu focuses on customizable wireless packages managed through the ADT+ app.

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

Bottom line: SimpliSafe or ADT Blu?

Choose SimpliSafe if you want a no-contract DIY security system with room to grow — it offers more environmental sensors and proactive monitoring features than most DIY competitors, though its premium plans carry a higher price tag than options like Ring or Cove.

Choose ADT Blu if you want a highly customizable, wireless DIY system with transparent pricing for both self-monitored and professionally monitored plans — just keep in mind that ADT Blu equipment is not compatible with other ADT product lines.

» MORE: Ring vs. ADT Blu