What makes Vivint different from SimpliSafe?
SimpliSafe just has a keypad to control the system, while Vivint has a smart hub.
Image: Alina Bradford, SafeWise
At first glance, the differences are immediately apparent. The two systems look nothing alike. SimpliSafe’s equipment has almost a space-age feel, while Vivint's large, tablet-like video hub gives it a more smart-homey look.
Aesthetics may not mean much to you when it comes to security devices. We get it. You want to know how the security system will work for you. The biggest differences between these two systems come down to price, installation, device options, and money-back guarantees.
SimpliSafe vs. Vivint cost comparison
There’s a substantial difference between SimpliSafe and Vivint when it comes to price. SimpliSafe has cheaper traditional monitoring plans and more affordable equipment.
SimpliSafe's monitoring fees start around $22, and Vivint’s start around $40. This is one of those cases where you get what you pay for. SimpliSafe’s $22 plan includes access to the SimpliSafe app: remote arming/disarming, some notifications, and the option to change system settings.
You have to boost up to Vivint's $44.99 plan if you want security camera recordings, extra notifications, an extended warranty, and smart home integration in the app. Even at the second tier, though, SimpliSafe is still a bit cheaper at $31.99. Here's a rundown of SimpliSafe's monitoring options, since they are vastly more complicated than Vivint's.
Where SimpliSafe knocks it out of the park is its Active Guard monitoring that puts live, trained humans on the job to monitor your property and take action immediately, whether it's telling a shady character to go away or calling emergency services. However, that extra level of protection comes with a higher pricetag: $50 per month for overnight protection and $80 for 24/7 guards.
Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
Their starter package prices are worlds apart, too. With SimpliSafe, you can snag a starter package for around $250, while Vivint charges around $600. Like with the monitoring plans, there’s more than meets the eye with these prices.
Vivint starter pack
- Touchscreen panel
- 2 door sensors
- Water sensor
- Motion sensor
SimpliSafe starter pack
- Base station and keypad
- Entry sensor
- Motion sensor
Vivint offers more equipment in its starter pack, and the equipment goes beyond the basic devices that just about every security system company offers. Instead of a keypad and base station, you’re instantly upgraded to a touchscreen. SimpliSafe doesn’t even offer touchscreens.
Plus, Vivint gives you a water sensor, which is helpful if your washer or dishwasher tends to overflow from time to time—getting alerted means quick cleanup and preventing expensive floor repairs.
Other than price, the most significant factor in SimpliSafe vs. Vivint is installation: SimpliSafe is DIY, and Vivint is professionally installed. Now, there are benefits to each type of installation, so it’s just a toss-up on what you’re looking for in this area.
SimpliSafe installs in less than an hour and takes no tools (unless you're installing the SimpliSafe doorbell). We found it easy to set up. But you may not have an hour, or maybe you just don’t want to fool with it. In that case, Vivint may be for you.
Need pro installation for SimpliSafe?
While we love SimpliSafe as a DIY security system, if installing gadgets isn't for you, no problem. They also have a professional installation option starting at $124.99.
Equipment and smart home device options
Vivint devices
- Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro
- Vivint Indoor Camera
- Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro
- Vivint Indoor Camera Pro
- Spotlight Pro
- Smart Thermostat
- Key fob
- Touchscreen panel
- Keypad
- Door/window sensor
- Glass break detector
- Motion sensor
- Recessed door sensor
- Medical pendant
- Carbon monoxide/smoke detector
- Kwickset smart lock
- Chime extender
- Smart plug
- Flood sensor
- Garage door controller
- Smart lights
- Yard sign light
Which system has better video surveillance—Vivint or SimpliSafe?
There's really no contest when comparing Vivint cameras to SimpliSafe cameras—Vivint's high-tech cameras crush SimpliSafe's run-of-the-mill offerings.
One of the things we love about Vivint's cameras is the SmartSentry feature, which lets trespassers know they've been spotted. It tells potential burglars that your home is protected and can help decrease package theft.
SimpliSafe's cameras get the job done for an affordable price, but don't expect any fancy extras, unless you're willing to pay.
SimpliSafe does offer advanced detection with its Pro and Pro Plus plans. The camera's AI detects threats, and live agents use the two-way talk feature and video to interact with potential threats. That's far beyond Vivint cameras' deter features, but those monitoring plans can cost up to $80 per month, as opposed to Vivint's $45.
No one likes to feel stuck with a decision, so we like that SimpliSafe gives you 60 days to change your mind from the day you order your equipment. Vivint only gives you three days after your installation.
Because SimpliSafe is a month-to-month, no-contract security system, you don't have to worry about cancellation fees. You can stop the pro-monitoring service and switch to self-monitoring at any time.
The only time you might be in hot water is if you financed your SimpliSafe equipment through Affirm—you still have to pay back that loan even if you cancel monthly services with SimpliSafe.
On the other hand, Vivint's cancellation penalties are steep. You don't get any wiggle room—Vivint expects you to pay 100% of your remaining balance if you cancel.
Vivint customer service vs. SimpliSafe
Customer service ratings for both companies run the gamut. Depending on who you talk to, you'll hear glowing praise or scathing remarks. To us, that means both companies need to work on offering a consistent customer service experience.
In fact, the hardwired, professionally-installed equipment makes it difficult to troubleshoot Vivint yourself. It's the opposite scenario when troubleshooting SimpliSafe—with no in-person techs available, you have to rely on your own gumption and clear instructions from service reps.
To learn more about helpline hours and the service channels available to you, read our Vivint customer service and SimpliSafe customer service guides.