SimpliSafe vs. ADT

We tested ADT and SimpliSafe cameras, evaluated their apps, and researched their offerings.
Better for flexible monitoring
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe
4.3 out of 5 stars
4.25
Starts at$21.99/mo
  • pro
    DIY and pro installation
  • pro
    Self monitoring option
Better for home automation
SafeStreets
ADT
4 out of 5 stars
4
Starts at$28.99/mo
  • pro
    Professional installation
  • pro
    Smart home compatibility

For over 12 years, SafeWise has conducted independent research and testing to write unbiased, human reviews (not robots). Read our methodology.

Why you can trust SafeWise
products considered
250+
research hours in 25+ in-home tests
10k+
years of combined experience
176+
homes and people protected
10M+

A 12-year multimedia reporter, Katie tests and reviews security and smart home tech. She’s also featured on outlets like AARP, Forbes, and TechGuySmartBuy.

According to our survey of 2,500 home security users, ADT and SimpliSafe are among the most popular security systems of 2025. They're both high-quality, trusted brands, but they cater to different groups of people.

  • ADT is a partially hardwired, professionally installed security system that's better for homeowners who want high-end cameras and smart home devices. It requires a 36-month contract.
  • SimpliSafe is a completely wireless home security system with month-to-month monitoring contracts. You can install and monitor it yourself if desired, but SimpliSafe doesn't offer quite as much equipment as ADT.

We've tested the equipment, surveyed real users, read customer reviews, and interviewed brand reps to learn the ins and outs of both brands. In our ADT vs. SimpliSafe review, we'll explain the major differences and help you decide which one is best for you. 

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Limited time sale

🔥 SimpliSafe is offering 50% off any new system* + get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card.

*With professional monitoring. Limit one per customer. Info current as of publish date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. 



SimpliSafe vs. ADT at a glance

Company
Contract length
Installation options
Monitoring options
Pro monitoring price
Smart home compatibility
Stand-out feature
Learn more
Month to month DIY or ProSelf (free) or proAmazon, Google Active Guard monitoring
36–60 months ProProAmazon, Google, Z-Wave Trusted Neighbor

Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.
Full ADT disclaimer

Key differences between SimpliSafe vs ADT

Contracts and cancellation: SimpliSafe contracts renew every month, so it's easy to cancel without penalty. ADT requires at least a 36-month contract, and you may have to pay up to 75% of your remaining balance if you want to end the contract early.

For financial advice around long-term security system contracts, check out Consumerfinance.gov's cancellation resources.

Upfront fees: ADT bundles its equipment and monitoring fees into one monthly payment. With SimpliSafe, you can pay for equipment upfront or finance it with a third-party service like Affirm.

Monthly fees: SimpliSafe has more affordable starting fees for professional monitoring. However, if you want all the bells and whistles, ADT ends up being $15 cheaper each month. 

Equipment selection: ADT offers pretty much every security device available, while SimpliSafe's system excludes things like garage door sensors and touchscreen panels.

Installation: ADT systems are professionally installed by local dealers with ADT installation costs from $99 to $199, but you can install your SimpliSafe system yourself (we did, and it's really easy) or pay for pro installation. ADT technically offers a DIY option through ADT Self Setup, but it's a completely different set of security equipment.

Power source: SimpliSafe equipment runs off batteries or are plugged into a standard wall outlet. ADT's control panel plugs into a standard wall outlet, and some of its equipment (like the Google Nest Cam and Google Nest Thermostat) can be hardwired into your home's electrical system. The wired devices include backup batteries for continuous protection.

Connection type: SimpliSafe systems work off your home's Wi-Fi network, while ADT systems use a combination of Wi-Fi and Z-Wave technology. All ADT plans include cellular backup, whereas SimpliSafe only offers cellular backup with its pro monitoring plans. ADT also offers a landline option for areas with poor connectivity.

Reliability: We found ADT's devices to be more reliable than SimpliSafe's, with more consistent connectivity.  ADT’s Google Nest cameras also have a smoother feed and better night vision.

System maintenance: For a little extra each month, ADT will ensure that your devices continue to work flawlessly. This is a perk you don't get with contract-free security systems like SimpliSafe.

Smart home integration: Both ADT’s and SimpliSafe’s security systems work with Amazon Alexa for voice control. But ADT has expanded its smart home capabilities through its partnership with Google Nest* so you can also control your system through Google Assistant and have ADT technicians install Nest products alongside your security system. ADT also integrates with tons of Z-Wave products for convenient smart home automation.

Monitoring plans: A monitoring plan comparison pitting ADT vs Simplisafe monitoring plans shows the flexibility of SimpliSafe's options. You can monitor the system yourself for free with no-contract home security, buy a few days' worth of pro monitoring when you go on vacation, or go all-in with pro monitoring. ADT only offers continuous professional monitoring. 

Monitoring centers: ADT owns and operates six fully redundant monitoring centers in the U.S., which means something like a natural disaster or a blackout won't compromise your system. SimpliSafe currently owns and operates one monitoring center, which leaves it more vulnerable. 

Live video monitoring: SimpliSafe monitoring agents  can talk to people through the Outdoor Camera Series 2 after AI detects a threat, which may help prevent a break-in. ADT monitors can also check live video footage to verify an alarm, but they can't intervene to scare away trespassers. 

Money-back guarantee: ADT offers a 6-month money-back guarantee, which is three times longer than SimpliSafe's 60-day guarantee.

Theft protection guarantee: ADT will pay up to $500 toward your insurance deductible if your home is burgled while the ADT system is armed. SimpliSafe doesn't offer this perk.

Warranty: Every SimpliSafe product comes with a three-year limited warranty. While ADT doesn't technically have a warranty, its Quality Service Plan (QSP) will cover any maintenance and comes included with most plans. 

SimpliSafe vs. ADT similarities

Monitoring centers: Neither SimpliSafe nor ADT outsources their professional monitoring services. Both companies own and operate monitoring centers that have earned the rare ANSI/TMA Alarm Validation Scoring Standard (AVS-01) UL-Listed Certification

Standard equipment selection: ADT and SimpliSafe systems offer similar standard security equipment, like a wireless keypad, key fob, contact sensors, motion sensors, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors.

Duress PINs: Both ADT and SimpliSafe allow you to set up a code that you can use to disarm the system while sending a secret distress call to the monitoring center. If you were ever threatened by an intruder to turn off the alarm or give up the code, using the duress PIN would silence the system for your safety while the monitoring center calls the police behind the scenes. 

Mobile app: Both companies have highly rated smartphone apps that allow you to access your system remotely and receive text notifications and email alerts when door and window sensors get tripped or if there's an alarm event. Although you used to have to pay extra to get mobile app access, both companies now offer it with all plans.

Guest app access: If you have house guests or want your neighbor to let themselves in to water the plants while you're away, you can grant them guest access to your ADT or SimpliSafe app. ADT goes a step further with its Trusted Neighbor system, which uses facial recognition to let people into the house.

Light Bulb
Customers love the SimpliSafe and ADT apps

According to our 2024 survey, 56% of respondents who canceled their home security service cited app usability as the primary reason. You shouldn't run into that problem with ADT or SimpliSafe because they both have exceptionally high ratings.

The SimpliSafe app has an average rating of 4.65 out of five stars from over 350,000 reviews on the Google Play and Apple App stores, while the ADT Control app boasts an average rating of 4.75 out of five stars from over 628,000 reviews. 

SimpliSafe pros and cons

pro
SimpliSafe pros
pro Month-to-month contract
pro No cancellation fees
pro Easy DIY installation
pro Works with Amazon Alexa for voice control
pro Free self monitoring available
pro Flexible pro monitoring
pro Active Guard monitoring to prevent crime
pro Lower starting fees for pro monitoring
pro 60-day money-back guarantee
con
SimpliSafe cons
con Limited smart home devices
con Cellular backup not available with self monitoring
con Cameras aren't quite as nice
con More expensive top-tier plan
con Monitoring center isn't redundant
con No theft protection guarantee

SimpliSafe is best for flexibility

SimpliSafe is a solid choice for flexible home security. If you're not sure whether you want monitor the system yourself or leave it to the pros, SimpliSafe can help you test the waters. And if you ever need to start pinching pennies, it's nice to be able to pause SimpliSafe's monthly fees at any time. 

You also get flexibility with installation. SimpliSafe's easy step-by-step instructions are designed for DIY installation, but you can have the system professionally installed if you prefer.

We also love SimpliSafe's Active Guard monitoring feature. SimpliSafe's professional monitors can tell a would-be burglar that they've already been spotted poking around your property, which can prevent a burglary from taking place. ADT doesn't offer this feature.

Active Guard monitoring does make SimpliSafe more expensive than ADT, but you can choose to pay for it only at night, only when you go on vacation, or any other time you think you need it.

Read our SimpliSafe review to learn more.

Icon Quote  Dark
Thoughts from a SimpliSafe customer
"I've been a SimpliSafe customer for almost a year now. They have absolutely wonderful equipment that keeps my home guarded/safe when I am away. I recently had problems with my motion detectors malfunctioning and called SimpliSafe's customer service, Jody had the problem solved within 10 mins. They have paid options to upgrade your service where they monitor it for you, or you can monitor it for free. My experience has been a wonderful service that keeps my home safe, and quick customer service to solve any issues with the technology!"

ADT pros and cons

pro
ADT pros
pro Low up-front costs
pro Wider selection of sensors
pro More smart home equipment
pro Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Z-Wave devices
pro Some equipment can be hardwired
pro Cellular backup with all plans
pro Quality video
pro Longest money-back guarantee in the industry
pro Optional maintenance contract
pro More affordable top-tier plan
pro Six fully redundant monitoring centers
con
ADT cons
con Requires a long-term commitment
con Cancellation fees
con More expensive entry-level plan
con No self monitoring option
con Monitoring center agents can't try to scare away intruders through the cameras

ADT is best for reliable connections and home automation

ADT smart home compatibility is strong, so if you like the idea of installing hardwired cameras for a reliable connection and you're interested in smart home automation, ADT is a good option.

ADT is also great for larger homes, as its mesh network means that you can add unlimited security products and smart devices.

ADT leases its equipment for a lower up-front cost, but its monthly professional monitoring fees end up costing the same (or even a little less) than SimpliSafe's. Your ADT monitored system is also professionally installed and maintained, which can be great for busy people. 

Be ready for a commitment with ADT. If you're not sure you can afford the system for three to five years, SimpliSafe may be the better option. 

Read our ADT review to learn more. Or, check out ADT's DIY option, ADT Self Setup.

Icon Quote  Dark
Thoughts from an ADT customer
"I have been an ADT customer for 27 years. Their customer service has always been satisfactory. [...] We had our alarm go off twice last week, an obvious malfunction both times. [...] [ADT] made an appointment to send out a tech free of charge and advised me of a new plan with the same terms we've had all these years, at a discounted rate, saving us $20 a month. A wonderful tech arrived this morning at the appointed time, and instead of changing the battery, he replaced the unit. In addition, while he was here, he replaced the batteries in every unit on the house. Free of charge. He was courteous, pleasant and helpful. Very professional. I feel ADT went above and beyond in addressing what was originally a minor issue."

FAQs

We recommend SimpliSafe vs ADT for apartments and rental homes. It's much easier to take SimpliSafe equipment with you if you move, and it's designed to leave no marks on the walls. ADT may need to drill into your walls to install some devices, which would require your landlord's approval.

The companies are about equal. ADT has more smart home integrations than SimpliSafe, but SimpliSafe has a better live video monitoring feature than ADT. 

ADT used to be one of the most expensive home security systems around. With the introduction of Active Guard monitoring, SimpliSafe can actually cost more per month than ADT. We think it's hard to put a price tag on peace of mind and protecting your belongings from theft. SimpliSafe allows you to adjust your monitoring tier at any time, whereas ADT is a little less flexible in letting you downgrade. Consider trying SimpliSafe first if you're on the fence. 

ADT is installed by professionals—it doesn't get much easier than letting someone else do the work. But SimpliSafe is very easy to install on your own thanks to the step-by-step instructions that appear on the keypad. 

How we decided: ADT vs. SimpliSafe

Front view of a SimpliSafe home security system keypad held by a SafeWise tester.

Image: SafeWise, Alina Bradford

I evaluated ADT as both a long-time customer and an objective security expert. I also tested SimpliSafe's cameras, used its app, and conducted thorough research on its security system offerings.

SimpliSafe's evaluation was based on my experience testing its cameras and using its app along with thorough research into its security system offerings. Every SafeWise review is different, but our full methodology explains more about our most common methods for rating and reviewing products.

Winner: SimpliSafe beats ADT by a hair

It's not often that we put the final verdict in our readers' hands, but with SimpliSafe vs. ADT, the decision mostly comes down to personal preference. But if you twist our arm, we'll say SimpliSafe is ultimately the better pick. 

Our 2025 survey shows that 55% of home security buyers prefer to self-monitor their systems, and 50% also want to install the system themselves. Add-ons like smart home devices don't appeal to the majority of buyers, and most folks choose contracts that last two years or less.

With all of this in mind, we think SimpliSafe is ultimately the better option for most people. But there's nothing wrong with ADT if you're drawn to its equipment, prestige, guarantees, and pricing structure. Both brands are top of the line.

Disclaimers

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time.

†Google, Google Nest Secure, Google Home, Google Nest Protect, and other related marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

ADT: $99.00-$199.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required starting at $59.99 per month ($2,159.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required starting at $59.99 per month ($1,439.76) for California. Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Smoke Detectors not available in all states. Services not available in all states.

Google Nest is a trademark of Google LLC. The Nest Hub Max requires a Wi-Fi network, a nearby electrical socket, and a compatible (Android, iOS) mobile device. A Google Account is required for full access to features. Minimum OS requirements are available at: Requirements for Google Nest and Chromecast devices - Android - Google Nest Help . iOS is a trademark of Cisco and is used under license.

Money back service guarantee only applies after ADT has made attempts to resolve a system related issue and has not been able to resolve that issue within the first 6 months of your contract. Equipment must be fully removed before a refund will be processed. Conditions preventing normal system operation cannot be caused by the customer.

Katie McEntire
Written by
As a renter, pet-owner, and woman living alone, Katie McEntire takes safety seriously. She’s tested devices like pet cameras, home security systems, and GPS trackers in her own home and devices in the name of safety. In addition to testing, writing, and reviewing for SafeWise, she also makes videos for the site’s YouTube channel. She’s been featured on publications like TechGuySmartBuy, Forbes, Healthy Moms, and Digital Care. Katie has a Bachelor’s degree in Technical Writing from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. She’s held previous writing positions at Overstock.com and Top Ten Reviews.

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