The main difference between ADT and SimpliSafe is that ADT requires professional installation and monitoring, while SimpliSafe offers DIY installation and optional monitoring. Both companies provide home security systems that include sensors, cameras, alarms, and smart home integration. However, they differ in terms of pricing, contracts, customer service, and features. In this article, we will compare ADT and SimpliSafe in detail and help you decide which one is best for your home security needs.
ADT and SimpliSafe have different pricing models for their equipment and monitoring plans. ADT charges an upfront fee for the equipment, which ranges from $599 to $2,099, depending on the package. ADT also requires a 36-month contract for the monitoring service, which costs from $45.99 to $65.99 per month. ADT offers discounts and promotions for new customers, but you may have to pay extra for installation, activation, and additional devices.
SimpliSafe, on the other hand, lets you buy the equipment outright or finance it with no interest. The equipment costs from $229 to $489, depending on the package. SimpliSafe does not require a contract for the monitoring service, which costs $14.99 or $24.99 per month. SimpliSafe also offers free shipping and a 60-day money-back guarantee. You can install the equipment yourself or pay a one-time fee of $79 for professional installation.
Features
Both ADT and SimpliSafe offer a variety of features to protect your home from intruders, fire, flood, and carbon monoxide. Both systems include sensors for doors, windows, motion, glass break, and smoke. Both systems also include cameras, alarms, keypads, and key fobs. However, there are some differences in the quality and functionality of these devices.
ADT has more advanced and reliable equipment than SimpliSafe. ADT uses cellular and landline connections for the monitoring service, while SimpliSafe only uses cellular. ADT also has a backup battery that lasts up to 24 hours, while SimpliSafe’s battery lasts up to 8 hours. ADT’s cameras have higher resolution, night vision, and two-way audio, while SimpliSafe’s cameras have lower resolution, no night vision, and one-way audio. ADT’s keypad has a touchscreen and voice control, while SimpliSafe’s keypad has buttons and no voice control.
SimpliSafe has some features that ADT does not have, such as environmental sensors, video doorbells, and smart locks. SimpliSafe’s environmental sensors can detect water leaks, temperature changes, and freeze. SimpliSafe’s video doorbell can show you who is at your door and let you talk to them remotely. SimpliSafe’s smart lock can lock and unlock your door automatically and remotely. SimpliSafe also has a panic button that can alert the monitoring center in case of an emergency.
Smart Home Integration
Both ADT and SimpliSafe can integrate with smart home devices and platforms, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and IFTTT. However, ADT has more compatibility and functionality than SimpliSafe. ADT can work with Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi devices, such as smart lights, thermostats, plugs, and switches. ADT can also work with third-party security products, such as Ring, Nest, and Arlo. ADT’s app allows you to control and monitor your system and devices from anywhere.
SimpliSafe can only work with Wi-Fi devices, such as smart lights, thermostats, and plugs. SimpliSafe cannot work with third-party security products, such as Ring, Nest, and Arlo. SimpliSafe’s app allows you to control and monitor your system and devices from anywhere, but only if you subscribe to the higher monitoring plan.
Both ADT and SimpliSafe have good customer service ratings, but ADT has more experience and expertise than SimpliSafe. ADT has been in the home security industry for over 140 years, while SimpliSafe has been in the market for only 12 years. ADT has more than 8 million customers, while SimpliSafe has more than 3 million customers. ADT has a network of over 200 local dealers and technicians, while SimpliSafe relies on third-party contractors and partners.
ADT and SimpliSafe both offer phone, email, and online support for their customers. However, ADT has more availability and responsiveness than SimpliSafe. ADT’s phone support is available 24/7, while SimpliSafe’s phone support is available from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. ET. ADT’s email and online support are also faster and more helpful than SimpliSafe’s email and online support.
Conclusion
ADT and SimpliSafe are two of the most popular home security companies in the US, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. ADT is better for those who want professional installation and monitoring, advanced and reliable equipment, and more smart home integration. SimpliSafe is better for those who want DIY installation and optional monitoring, affordable and flexible pricing, and some unique features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, preferences, and security needs.
