SimpliSafe vs. Vector Security

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How are SimpliSafe and Vector Security different?

SimpliSafe and Vector Security offer standard and customizable home security solutions with home automation features. Vector Security goes one step further in life safety with a medical alert pendant that can be connected to the system.

While SimpliSafe is wireless and easy to install yourself, Vector Security only offers its systems with professional installation. With SimpliSafe, you can choose professional monitoring or have the option to monitor the system yourself, while Vector Security only comes with professional monitoring.

Installation and cost

simplisafe logovector security logo
Installation typeDIYProfessional
Installation feeFreeIncluded
Upfront costBuild-your-own systems start at $135 with interactive monitoring$99 to $199
Trial period60-days; 100% satisfaction or return for full refundOne-year warranty on equipment
Contract termsNo-contract options availableVaries
simplisafe logoDIYFreeBuild-your-own systems start at $135 with interactive monitoring60-days; 100% satisfaction or return for full refundNo-contract options available
vector security logoProfessionalIncluded$99 to $199One-year warranty on equipmentVaries

Monitoring plans and pricing

simplisafe logovector security logo
Monitoring price range$15 to $25$46 to $64
Monitoring optionsProfessional or self-monitoredProfessional
Self-monitoringFree
Upgraded self-monitoringNot offered
24/7 professional monitoring$15/monthStarting at $46
Upgraded professional monitoring$25/month$64
simplisafe logo$15 to $25Professional or self-monitoredFreeNot offered$15/month$25/month
vector security logo$46 to $64ProfessionalStarting at $46$64

Security equipment

simplisafe logovector security 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
SirenNot listed
Panic buttonMedical panic button
Yard sign
simplisafe logoWirelessIndoor and outdoor cameras
vector security logoWirelessIndoor and outdoor camerasYesYes

Smart-home features

simplisafe logovector security logo
Smart locks
Smart lights
Smart thermostat
Garage door control
Temperature sensorNot listed
Water sensor
Smoke detector
CO detector
simplisafe logo
vector security logoNot listed

Technology

simplisafe logovector security logo
Mobile app
Mobile app monitoring
iOS rating4.84.7
Android rating4.33.9
Notification/alert optionsPush, text and emailEmail, text and push
Home automation capabilities
Voice integration
Amazon Alexa
Google Home
Other integrationsAmazon Alexa, Google Home, August LocksSmart plugs
simplisafe logo4.84.3Push, text and emailAmazon Alexa, Google Home, August Locks
vector security logo4.73.9Email, text and pushSmart plugs

Reputation on ConsumerAffairs

simplisafe logovector security logo
Overall star rating2.34.3
Verified customer reviewsSimpliSafe reviewsVector Security reviews
simplisafe logo2.3SimpliSafe reviews
vector security logo4.3Vector Security reviews

All information accurate as of publishing date.

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    SimpliSafe highlights

    SimpliSafe offers wireless DIY home security systems with professional monitoring and doesn’t require a contract. Its systems work with Alexa, Google Assistant, August Locks, Apple Watch and more. You can choose which sensors you want, and a company rep will walk you through the process of selecting which equipment is best for your home.

    Setup does not require drilling or connection to a landline, and professional installation is also available for $79. It’s easy to add cameras or sensors anytime, and the interactive monitoring plan includes unlimited video recording.

    SimpliSafe packages

    • Build My System comes with your choice of equipment and advice from security professionals on what sensors you’ll need in addition to the base station. The system costs $184 and includes a base station and keypad. Additional equipment is priced a la carte, including entry sensors for $14.99 each and motion sensors for $29.99 each. Motion detector cameras are $99 each. Accessories and batteries are free.
    • The Foundation comes with one base station, one keypad, one entry sensor and one motion sensor. The package costs $229.
    • The Essentials includes one base station, one keypad, one motion sensor and three entry sensors for $259.
    • The Hearth includes one base station, one keypad, one key fob, three entry sensors, one motion sensor, one siren and one smoke detector. This package costs $374.
    • The Knox includes one base station, one keypad, one key fob, six entry sensors, two motion sensors, a siren and a smoke detector for $449.
    • The Haven package comes with a base station, four entry sensors, one keypad, one key fob, two motion sensors, one siren, one panic button, one temperature sensor, one water sensor, one smoke detector, window decals and a yard sign. The package costs $489.

    SimpliSafe monitoring plans

    • Interactive Monitoring comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, emergency and fire protection, unlimited video recording and video verification. This plan costs 83 cents per day and does not require a contract.
    • Standard Monitoring comes with 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup and emergency and fire protection. This plan costs 50 cents per day and does not require a contract.
    • Self-monitoring with Camera Recording lets you get alerts on your phone for every security sensor in your home system and see everything happening in your home on up to five cameras. Unlimited recording is included. This plan costs 33 cents per day and does not include professional monitoring.

    What SimpliSafe customers say

    SimpliSafe has mixed feedback from customers on ConsumerAffairs. Common themes in positive reviews include the ease of installation and monitoring through SimpliSafe’s mobile app, the cost of the system and the customer service team. Reviews from customers who had less-than-ideal experiences mention equipment issues and difficulty uninstalling the system.

    The system is easy to set up and use. There are many ways alarms can be configured to adapt to each household’s needs. I particularly appreciate getting text messages that let me see who has come to my front door via the doorbell camera.

    M.A. of Fort Worth, TX

    Vector Security highlights

    Vector Security offers home, business and multisite commercial security systems. You can choose standard or customized home security systems and purchase additional equipment, including a doorbell camera, medical alert pendants and buttons, smoke, detectors, CO monitors, outdoor cameras, smart locks and plugs, indoor infrared cameras, smart light bulbs and a smart thermostat.

    You can control lights, locks, the thermostat and cameras from the Vector Security app. The company provides professional installation and can use equipment from an existing home security system.

    Vector Security plans

    • Essential Security includes a wireless control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, SecurityCare Plus, window decals, a yard sign, professional installation and professional monitoring.
    • Home Automation comes with a wireless control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, SecurityCare Plus, mobile solutions, an indoor camera, yard signs, window decals, professional installation and professional monitoring.
    • Connected Home includes a wireless control panel, three door/window sensors, a motion detector, SecurityCare Plus, mobile solutions, a smart thermostat, a smart door lock, an indoor camera, a yard sign, window decals, professional installation and professional monitoring.

    What Vector Security customers say

    Vector Security receives overall positive reviews on ConsumerAffairs, with happy customers frequently mentioning good communication and quality service from Vector staff. Some customers who didn’t enjoy their experience commented on issues surrounding their contract and navigating cancellation policies.

    We couldn’t ask for any better service than we have received from Vector. They are the best on top of any issue and the people that come out are the best. They check everything and cover everything. Always looking to improve."

    Lauren of Durham, NC

    Bottom line: SimpliSafe or Vector Security?

    One of the key differences between SimpliSafe and Vector Security is that SimpliSafe lets you install and monitor the system yourself. For those looking for professional support and more home automation, however, Vector may be the better option.

    • SimpliSafe is best for DIY customers who want to do self-monitoring or want a comprehensive security system they can install themselves.
    • Vector Security is best for customers who prefer professional installation and are looking for a complete line of home automation devices.
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