Bottom Line
SimpliSafe
Compare the current kit, seller, return terms, and monitoring options before buying.
Renter-Friendly DIY · Editor's Choice
SimpliSafe
★★★★★
"SimpliSafe is a practical renter option for people who want DIY equipment, an unmonitored path, or optional professional monitoring without a long-term monitoring contract."
Good fit for
Renters and homeowners who want professional monitoring without long-term contracts
Current terms
Check SimpliSafe for current equipment, monitoring, recording, and refund terms
Works on
iOS, Android; sensors work without internet (cellular backup)
Standout feature
DIY equipment with unmonitored and paid monitoring options
Our score
8.7 / 10
Pros
- No long-term monitoring contracts (cancel any month)
- Several professional monitoring options with different response and camera features
- DIY installation - no tools, no drilling for sensors
- Network backup is included with select professional monitoring plans
- Current refund and warranty terms are published by SimpliSafe
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
Cons
- Response and camera features vary by monitoring plan
- Camera subscription separate from alarm monitoring
- DIY-focused setup; confirm current installation assistance before purchase
- Ecosystem locked to SimpliSafe hardware
What SimpliSafe Does Well
DIY Setup With Clear Guidance
SimpliSafe is designed for DIY installation. The base station, keypad, and sensors are configured through the app, and many sensors use adhesive mounting. Renters should confirm surface compatibility and lease rules before mounting equipment, then test every sensor and alert path after setup.
The app provides placement and setup guidance. Installation time depends on the number of sensors, camera placement, Wi-Fi coverage, account setup, and any local alarm-permit requirements.
Monitoring and Self-Monitoring Options
SimpliSafe currently lists several professional monitoring plans, a self-monitoring plan with camera recordings, and an unmonitored option. Emergency dispatch, video intervention, recording retention, integrations, and network backup vary by plan. Compare the current plan table against the response path you actually need.
Without professional monitoring, you are responsible for noticing alerts and contacting emergency services. Before paying for a plan, confirm whether your cameras, desired recording history, app controls, and alarm type are included.
Cellular Backup and Reliability
The base station includes backup power, and select professional monitoring plans include network backup subject to coverage and availability. Confirm the current plan requirement, then test Wi-Fi loss, power loss, notifications, and the monitoring contact sequence in a safe test mode.
Battery-powered sensors reduce dependence on household wiring, but batteries still need inspection and replacement. Review the current maintenance guidance for each device in the system.
Portability for Renters
The system's DIY equipment can be removed and reinstalled, which is useful for renters. Before moving it, follow SimpliSafe's current removal and replacement-adhesive instructions, update the service address, review local permit requirements, and retest every sensor and monitoring path.
If relocation matters, compare removal steps, replacement mounting supplies, service-address changes, local permits, monitoring transfer, and any contract or equipment obligations across the systems you are considering.
Ecosystem and Smart Home Integration
Supported plans can integrate with Google Home or Google Assistant for arming and status checks. SimpliSafe's current support guidance says voice commands cannot disarm the system. Confirm current platform and plan compatibility before treating any smart-home integration as a requirement.
Do not assume that a sensor, camera, lock, or automation from another brand will work with the system. Check the current compatibility list for every device and integration you need, including which features require a paid plan.
Hardware Quality
Hardware dimensions, detection range, battery type, environmental limits, pet guidance, and mounting instructions differ by device. Measure each location and check the current specification and installation page for the exact sensor or camera before ordering.
The keypad and sensors are designed for a straightforward household setup. Check current device specifications, mounting requirements, environmental limits, and audible-alarm ratings for the exact hardware bundle you are considering.
How SimpliSafe Compares
Against Ring Alarm Pro, compare current camera integration, monitoring eligibility, network backup, privacy controls, and equipment compatibility. Ring may fit an existing Ring camera household, while SimpliSafe may fit someone who wants its monitoring and DIY equipment path.
Against Eufy Security System or another self-monitoring option, compare who receives an alarm, who can request emergency help, where recordings are stored, which features require a subscription, and what happens during internet or power loss. Confirm each provider's current plan and device details rather than relying on a category-level assumption.
Who Should Buy It / Who Should Skip It
SimpliSafe is a practical option for renters and homeowners who prefer DIY installation and want a choice between unmonitored use and paid monitoring. Confirm current refund, warranty, cancellation, and relocation terms before buying hardware.
Skip or postpone SimpliSafe if required third-party devices are not on its current compatibility list, if a different installation model is necessary, or if its available recording, monitoring, privacy, and backup options do not match your requirements. Existing Ring or Eufy users should compare migration cost and current cross-device support before adding another ecosystem.
Company Background & Trust
HeadquartersBoston, Massachusetts, USA
Founded2006
Hardware OriginDesigned in USA; manufactured in China
Audits & CertificationsUL-listed components. Annual third-party penetration testing (not publicly disclosed).
✓ Trusted
Trusted US company with a clean record. Boston-based, independently operated, no history of data breaches, employee misconduct, or regulatory actions. Hardware is manufactured in China (standard for consumer electronics) but SimpliSafe's data operations are US-based. No FTC, state AG, or congressional scrutiny on record.
Our Ratings Breakdown
Frequently Asked Questions
Can SimpliSafe be used without a monitoring plan?
SimpliSafe offers an unmonitored option and paid monitoring plans. Without professional monitoring, emergency dispatch and other plan features are unavailable. Confirm the current app and recording features before choosing.
Does SimpliSafe work during a power or internet outage?
The base station includes backup power, and select professional monitoring plans include network backup. Confirm current plan requirements and regional network availability, then test the backup path after setup.
Can I take SimpliSafe when I move?
The DIY equipment can be removed and reinstalled. Confirm current sensor-removal, replacement-adhesive, address-change, permit, and monitoring instructions before moving it.