How are SimpliSafe and Guardian Protection different?
Guardian Protection and SimpliSafe have some similarities, including a wide selection of home security devices, but there are several key differences between the companies that you should know if you're choosing between the two. Comparing the two side by side can help you determine which is right for you.
Installation and cost
Installation type
DIY
Professional
Installation fee
Free
Included in all packages
Upfront cost
Build-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoring
Varies by equipment
Trial period
60-days; 100% satisfaction or return for full refund
None listed
Contract terms
No-contract options available
Typically 60 months; month-to-month options available
DIY
Free
Build-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoring
60-days; 100% satisfaction or return for full refund
No-contract options available
Professional
Included in all packages
Varies by equipment
None listed
Typically 60 months; month-to-month options available
SimpliSafe is known for easy-to-install DIY wireless home security systems, but professional installation is also available for an additional fee. You can customize a system with the help of a SimpliSafe security expert or choose from one of the company’s equipment packages. You have 60 days to try out the system at home and return it for a full refund if you’re not satisfied.
The company makes it easy to add more cameras and sensors to your system as needed, and you can control your home security system from the app. SimpliSafe offers professional or self-monitoring options with no contracts.
SimpliSafe plans
Build My System includes a base station and a keypad. A SimpliSafe representative helps you choose optional equipment, which is purchased a la carte. The system costs $184.
The Foundation ($229) includes a base station, a keypad, an entry sensor and a motion sensor.
The Essentials ($259) includes a base station, a keypad, a motion sensor and three entry sensors.
The Hearth ($374) comes with a base station, a keypad, a key fob, three entry sensors, a motion sensor, a siren and a smoke detector.
The Knox ($449) includes a base station, a keypad, a key fob, six entry sensors, two motion sensors, a siren and a smoke detector.
The Haven ($489) package comes with a base station, four entry sensors, a keypad, a key fob, two motion sensors, a siren, a panic button, a temperature sensor, a water sensor, a smoke detector, window decals and a yard sign.
SimpliSafe monitoring plans
Self-monitoring with Camera Recording sends you push notifications on your phone and video of everything happening in your home on up to five cameras. This is a self-monitoring plan that does not include professional monitoring.
Standard Monitoring (50 cents/day) comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup and emergency and fire alerts.
Interactive Monitoring (83 cents/day) comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, emergency and fire alerts, unlimited video recording and video verification.
What SimpliSafe customers say
Positive reviews for SimpliSafe mention the cost, mobile app, customer service and overall ease of setup, while customers who didn’t enjoy the service complain about equipment issues — at least one that caused a false alarm trigger, according to the reviewer.
I have used Simplisafe for 8 plus years on 3 different addresses. They are priced fairly, the system was easy to install, their customer service is friendly and knowledgeable, and the system has been reliable with excellent response times when the system alarmed."
Guardian Protection offers home security and smart-home automation with lights, thermostats, locks and an app that lets you control the system from anywhere. You can customize a system or choose from one of nine equipment bundles.
Systems are compatible with many smart-home devices and speakers, and the company also offers life safety devices. The company offers professional installation and 24/7 monitoring.
Guardian Protection plans
Bachelor(ette) Pad includes 24/7 monitoring, a mobile app and fire and burglar protection. Equipment includes a touch-screen panel, a doorbell camera, a monitored smoke alarm, three door/window sensors and a motion detector.
Burglar Buster comes with 24/7 monitoring and smart video surveillance. The package includes a motion detector, three door/window sensors, a control panel, smart automated light modules, a glass break detector, an indoor camera, an outdoor camera and a siren.
Family First includes 24/7 monitoring, door access alerts and keyless entry. Equipment includes a control panel, five door/window sensors, a motion detector, a smoke and heat detector, a CO detector, a video doorbell, a smart door lock, an indoor camera and an outdoor camera.
Frequent Flyer includes 24/7 monitoring, mobile control, front door awareness and burglary/fire protection. The system includes a control panel, three door/window sensors, motion detection, a smoke and heat detector, a Video Doorbell Pro, a smart door lock, a smart automated light module, a smart garage door opener and an indoor camera.
Healthy (Green) Home includes 24/7 professional monitoring, energy-efficient solutions, smart temperature control and connected lights. Equipment includes 24/7 monitoring, a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, a CO detector, a smart automated light module, a smart thermostat and a room temperature sensor.
Home Security Essentials comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, mobile control, intrusion and fire detection and home automation. Equipment includes a touch-screen panel, three door/window sensors, motion detectors and smoke/heat detectors.
Pet Parent has 24/7 monitoring, monitored smoke and CO detectors, video and photo capabilities and temperature control. Equipment includes a control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, two smoke and heat detectors, a CO detector, a smart door lock, smart automated light modules, a smart thermostat, an indoor camera and a room temperature sensor.
Protect My Parents comes with 24/7 monitoring, life safety components and unexpected activity alerts. The system is designed to be easy to operate. Equipment includes a medical pendant, a control panel, five door/window sensors, a smoke and heat detector, two motion detectors and a CO detector.
The Works comes with 24/7 monitoring, keyless entry and live video. Equipment includes a control panel, five door/window sensors, a motion detector, a smoke and heat detector, a CO detector, a medical pendant, a video doorbell, a smart lock, a smart automated light module, a smart thermostat, a smart garage door opener, a glass break detector, an indoor camera, an outdoor camera, a siren and room temperature sensors.
What Guardian Protection customers say
Guardian Protection reviews frequently mention good customer service and positive experiences with the installation technicians. Customers say the system works well and that they enjoy having remote access through the app. Some customers expressed frustration with contract issues and said their service calls weren’t as prompt as they would have liked.
I would recommend this organization to other homeowners. The most convenient aspect of this system is the remote access and having the ability to see who is at the door whether I am at the residence or not. Very much like this aspect of the service."
SimpliSafe home security systems are wireless and designed to be easy for DIY installation, while systems from Guardian Protection require professional installation and monitoring. Guardian Protection offers complete solutions for home automation, including smart light and appliance modules, which might be an attractive option for many people.
SimpliSafe is best for customers who want the latest technology with options for DIY installation and self-monitoring.
Guardian Protection is best for those who prefer professional installation and monitoring with smart-home integration.
