SimpliSafe and Vivint offer highly customizable options for home security systems, but there are differences between the two companies — for instance, SimpliSafe has five bundled equipment packages, while Vivint only customizes equipment based on clients’ needs. Some similarities include the cost of 24/7 monitoring and the option to install the equipment yourself or to have a professional install it. We've created a side-by-side comparison to help you decide between these two companies.
Installation and cost
Installation type
DIY
Professional
Installation fee
Free
$49 to $199
Upfront cost
Build-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoring
Varies based on equipment
Trial period
60-day return window
None listed
Contract terms
No-contract options available
Typical contract is 60 months; month-to-month available with upfront equipment purchase
DIY
Free
Build-your-own systems start at $129 with interactive monitoring
60-day return window
No-contract options available
Professional
$49 to $199
Varies based on equipment
None listed
Typical contract is 60 months; month-to-month available with upfront equipment purchase
SimpliSafe is highly customizable, which makes it good for customers with different budgets and needs. The company has five package options you can choose from and add devices to, and it also offers a build-your-own system where you can choose the exact equipment you want. The company gives you the option to self-monitor or pay for professional monitoring, and the system can integrate with Alexa and Google Home.
Professional installation costs $79 through SimpliSafe.
SimpliSafe plans
The Foundation: The Foundation costs $229 and is SimpliSafe’s most basic package. It includes a base station, one entry sensor, a keypad and one motion sensor.
The Essentials: The Essentials is the company's most popular package and costs $259. It includes the base station, three entry sensors, a keypad and one motion sensor.
The Hearth: The Hearth, which costs $374, is a good mid-range option. The package includes one base station, a keypad, a key fob, three entry sensors, one motion sensor, a siren and a smoke detector.
The Knox: The Knox pricing costs $449 and includes a base station, six entry sensors, two motion sensors, a keypad, a key fob, a siren and a smoke detector.
The Haven: The Haven is the most robust plan and costs $489. The package includes the base station, two motion sensors, a temperature sensor, a water sensor, a key fob, a siren, a panic button, four entry sensors, a keypad and a smoke detector.
What SimpliSafe customers say
SimpliSafe has somewhat mixed reviews on our site. Happy customers like the price, easy setup and mobile monitoring. A few reviews mention equipment malfunctions or billing disputes, and one customer was unhappy the company wouldn’t provide services to uninstall the system.
So far, I have no complaints. It's been working fine and was easy to set up. You may need to be a little bit skilled in setting things up but it's really not a big deal. I like that you can add options as you need them.”
Vivint focuses on advanced technology and smart-home integrations. The company doesn’t have equipment bundles — instead, you'll work directly with a Vivint representative who will help you design a home security system that fits your needs exactly. The company's equipment is typically professionally installed, but there are some DIY installation options available.
Vivint has several smart-home integration options, including smart doorbells, smart locks, a touch-screen control panel and cameras. The systems are compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Philips Hue lightbulbs and Chamberlain MyQ garage door openers. The Vivint phone application lets you self-monitor and steam video. It also arms and disarms the system, and it can be used to open and close the garage door.
Financing is available for equipment costs. If you finance your equipment, Vivint requires a contract. If you purchase the equipment upfront, you can pay for monitoring on a month-to-month basis.
Vivint plans
Vivint does not have bundled equipment plans and packages. It customizes the equipment on a client-by-client basis. Equipment options include indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, a control panel, a smart thermostat, smart locks, motion sensors, door/window sensors, a panic pendant and glass break sensors. The system is compatible with specific garage door openers.
What Vivint customers say
Reviewers of Vivint’s systems report positive experiences with technicians who take the time to carefully install and explain how the equipment works. One customer said he would “refer everybody I know to this company.” Most customers are satisfied with the performance of the system, but a few experienced faulty equipment or installation and were frustrated by the lack of communication from the company. Overall, however, reviewers are happy with the professional and friendly service they received.
The sales rep was very personable and well versed on the system and options, I liked him. The installers were great, knowledgeable and kept me informed about every step of the process. This was a great experience and I feel safer having their system installed. Looked at a lot of different companies before choosing this one. I believe I made the right choice. Highly recommend this company. Thank you.”
SimpliSafe and Vivint offer great options for advanced technology and smart-home integration. Both also let you take the system with you if you move, which makes them good options for renters.
Vivint is best for those who want an entirely customized equipment package. It also has some more advanced technology for its doorbells and outdoor cameras.
SimpliSafe is best for those who want a variety of equipment package options with the option to add other devices. This helps meet a variety of budget needs.
