SimpliSafe is one of the most popular home security systems. It’s easy to set up. It’s made for people who want simple, strong protection without a lot of wires or stress. But does it still hold up today? With so many smart systems out there, is SimpliSafe still the best choice? Let’s break it down.

What Is SimpliSafe?

SimpliSafe is a smart home security system. It’s known for being easy to install and use. You don’t need a technician to set it up. Most people can do it in under an hour. It works with a base station, a keypad, and sensors. You place sensors on doors, windows, and walls. If something triggers a sensor, the system alerts you. You can add extras like cameras, smart locks, and smoke alarms. All of it connects through Wi-Fi or cellular backup. You control everything through an app or keypad.

What Comes in the Box?

Most SimpliSafe kits include:

• A base station (the brain of the system)
• A wireless keypad
• Entry sensors (for doors and windows)
• Motion sensors
• Optional extras like cameras, panic buttons, and glass break detectors

You can choose from preset packages or build your own system.

Is It Easy to Set Up?

Yes. That’s one of SimpliSafe’s best features. You don’t need tools or wiring. Most sensors stick to walls or doors with strong tape. The app walks you through each step. It takes about 30–45 minutes to set up a basic system. You can always add more devices later. For renters or people who move often, this is a big plus

How Well Does It Work?

SimpliSafe does a good job of catching motion, open doors, and other risks. The sensors are reliable. The base station sounds a loud siren if something goes wrong. You’ll also get a phone alert. If you pay for monitoring, SimpliSafe calls you or emergency services when needed. Cameras give you live video and clips. Video quality is clear, even at night. Everything works smoothly most of the time.

What About the App?

The SimpliSafe app is simple and clean. It shows you the status of your system right away. You can arm or disarm the system, view camera feeds, and get alerts. You can also check event history to see what’s happened. You can set rules, like turning off the motion sensors when you’re home. The app is fast and rarely crashes.

Does It Work with Smart Devices?

SimpliSafe works with:

• Amazon Alexa
• Google Assistant
• August smart locks
• Apple Watch

But it doesn’t go much further than that. It won’t connect with smart lights, plugs, or thermostats unless you use other apps like Alexa Routines. This might matter if you want a full smart home setup. If you just want security, it’s fine.

What’s the Monthly Cost?

You can use SimpliSafe with or without a subscription.

Without a plan, you still get:

• App control
• Alerts
• Live camera view

But you lose features like:

• 24/7 monitoring
• Video recording
• Emergency dispatch
• Cloud storage for clips

With a plan, you choose between:

• Self Monitoring ($10–$12/month): Access to camera storage and app features
• Professional Monitoring ($20–$30/month): 24/7 emergency help, camera storage, full features

There are no contracts. You can cancel anytime.

What About Equipment Cost?

Prices vary based on the package.

• Small kits start at around $200
• Bigger kits can cost $400 or more
• Cameras are $100–$170 each
• Extra sensors cost $15–$35 each

It’s not the cheapest system, but it’s not overpriced either. You pay once for the gear. No rental fees.

Is It Safe and Secure?

Yes. SimpliSafe uses encryption and a secure signal to protect your data. It also has cellular backup. If Wi-Fi fails, it still works. You can set up two-factor login for the app. This keeps your account safe. The system has a loud siren to scare off intruders. It also sends alerts in real time. SimpliSafe’s monitoring service is quick. They usually respond in under 30 seconds when an alarm goes off.

What’s Missing?

SimpliSafe is strong on core features. But it’s not perfect.

Here are some things that could be better:

• Limited smart home support: No deep connection to other brands
• No outdoor siren: You’ll need to buy one separately
• Limited automation: No custom schedules without using Alexa or routines
• No local video storage: All clips are cloud-only

If you want full smart home control, this might feel limited.

Is Customer Service Good?

It’s mixed. Some people say SimpliSafe is fast and helpful. Others say it takes too long to reach someone. Most problems are fixed through the app or website. The help center has clear guides and videos. If you need to return a product, they offer a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Should You Still Buy It This Year?

Yes—if you want simple, strong home security without the hassle.

SimpliSafe is great for people who:

• Want to install it themselves
• Need solid protection
• Don’t want to sign contracts
• Don’t need full smart home control

If you already have a lot of smart gear or want deep automation, SimpliSafe may feel limited. But for most homes, it works well. It’s been around for years, and it’s still one of the best in its class.

Conclusion

SimpliSafe is still worth it.

It gives strong, easy-to-use home security at a fair price. You can install it yourself, and it works right away. If you want peace of mind without tech headaches, SimpliSafe is a smart pick. Just don’t expect deep smart home features. This system is made for safety first.