Discover why SimpliSafe is our #1 choice for proactive, no-contract home security. Easy setup, flexible monitoring, and live guard options.
Secure Your Home with SimpliSafe: Easy Setup, Affordable Protection, No Contracts.

🔥 SimpliSafe is offering 60% off any new system + a FREE doorbell!* Use code PORCHPIRATE60 for this exclusive SafeWise reader deal.
Find out how SimpliSafe can help keep your packages out of the hands of porch pirates in our 2025 Package Theft report, made possible with support from SimpliSafe.
*On any new system with professional monitoring. Limit one per customer. Offer valid with code through 1/5/26. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Why SimpliSafe?
We want to point out that SimpliSafe has a few features that are hard to find elsewhere.
Active Guard monitoring: We can't say enough about this real-time "security guard" feature. SimpliSafe trains all of its monitors and runs its own monitoring center to ensure that its live guard protection delivers the most proactive intruder deterrence in the industry.
Video alarm verification: Available only to Core, Pro and Pro Plus subscribers, this allows SimpliSafe's professional monitors to view brief clips from your security cameras to understand what's going on. It helps them confirm the alarm and dispatch the best emergency services.
RapidSOS: RapidSOS allows SimpliSafe's monitors to share your information with local dispatchers within seconds, which can shave minutes off police response times.
Cove is the only other national security brand currently integrated with RapidSOS.
Extra technology: SimpliSafe recently announced two new monitoring updates to improve emergency dispatch time. Text-based alarms let you quickly cancel a false alarm or confirm an emergency, and the optional critical alarm notifications by-pass your phone's Do Not Disturb or silent settings during an alarm event.
Small-batch pro monitoring: Although they don't advertise it, we have the inside scoop straight from SimpliSafe. You can buy 30 days of pro monitoring through SimpliSafe and decide exactly when to use them. It could be only for the weekdays, weekends, or when you're on vacation.

SimpliSafe vs. the competition
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer. *ADT $28.99 for landline system only. Full ADT disclaimer.
Where SimpliSafe beats the competition
- No contracts or cancellation fees
- Quick, DIY setup — perfect for renters and homeowners
- Self-monitoring available (just use the app, no subscription required)
- Designed to be affordable without sacrificing protection
- Trusted by millions — many users stay for over 10 years

How much does SimpliSafe cost?
Monthly monitoring costs range from $0 (self-monitoring) to $80, with the top-tier plan including 24/7 Active Guard outdoor monitoring for the same price that other systems charge without real-time intervention. SimpliSafe also gives you full control over your plan — you can start, stop, upgrade, or downgrade at any time with no fees. Plus, you get a 30-day trial to decide if professional monitoring is worth it.
SimpliSafe equipment costs
SimpliSafe’s equipment packages start at around $250 and often include a free indoor or outdoor camera. Compared to other DIY security brands, it offers some of the best prices. Plus, if you want a bigger setup, you don’t have to pay all at once — SimpliSafe now offers financing through Affirm.
FAQ
The benefit of adding professional monitoring to your SimpliSafe security system is knowing someone else is watching over your home. When your SimpliSafe alarm is triggered, the monitoring center receives an alert so they can confirm the emergency and contact help.
Without professional alarm monitoring, you're on your own to assess the danger (it may be a false alarm) and reach out to law enforcement.
No. The SimpliSafe alarm system doesn't require a Wi-Fi connection, cell phone, or computer. All you need are the base station and keypad. These components use a built-in cellular connection to communicate.
But you may need to go online to activate and access certain features, including the SimpliCam security camera, which does require a Wi-Fi connection.
You do need to pay for the Fast Protect™ plan to access cellular monitoring. Otherwise, the SimpliSafe system defaults to Wi-Fi.
It's also important to note that without a smartphone, you won't be able to self-monitor your system remotely (via push alerts). You'll only be able to hear if the siren is activated when you're within hearing distance of the base station.
Why we recommend SimpliSafe home security
SimpliSafe is a straightforward, low-cost, do-it-yourself home security solution. Its discreet equipment is ideal for small living spaces, but it may fall short if you need to protect a large amount of property.
For those looking to add home security on a budget, SimpliSafe’s affordable equipment and no-contract professional monitoring are hard to beat.
*With a new system with professional monitoring.
Disclaimers
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change.
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.





