SimpliSafe vs ADT (2026): which home security system fits your needs?
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SimpliSafe and ADT are both reliable security systems, but their approaches to keeping you safe differ vastly. Choosing between them boils down to whether you value flexibility and affordability over a professional-first approach with the latest monitoring equipment.
While SimpliSafe is one of the newer kids on the block, it’s already established itself as the go-to option for DIY enthusiasts, budget-conscious individuals, and renters.
On the other hand, ADT has been around for over 150 years. It’s also well-known for its professional installation, high-end monitoring equipment, and easy-to-set-up smart home automations.
To save you precious time and help you decide between the two, the Cybernews research crew and I took a deep dive into both systems. We compared them across multiple categories, including installation, monitoring, smart features, costs, contracts, and more. Below are our findings.
SimpliSafe vs ADT comparison table
Comparing ADT vs SimpliSafe can be tough because they’re both reliable home security companies. However, I found that ADT shines in professional services and monitoring, while SimpliSafe is great at affordability and offers contract-free home security.
| SimpliSafe | ADT | |
| ⭐️Rating | 4.5★★★★★ | 4.3★★★★☆ |
| ⚖️Overall rank | #3 out of #9 | #6 out of #9 |
| 💵Monitoring cost | Starts from $33.00/month ($1.10/day) | Starts from $24.99/month |
| 💲Equipment cost | Starts from $249.96 (currently $100.40) | Starts from $269.00 (currently $199.00) |
| 🛠️Installation options | DIY and optional professional install | Professional (DIY option available with ADT Self-Setup) |
| 👁️Monitoring options | Free self-monitoring or optional professional monitoring | Self-monitoring (free) or professional with tiered plans |
| 🧾Contract | No contract required, month-to-month plans available, cancel anytime | 36-month required contract (24 in California), early cancellation fees |
| Money-back guarantee | 60 days | 180 days (if ADT isn’t able to resolve system-related issues) |
| 📱App control | The SimpliSafe mobile app requires a higher-tier plan for full access | ADT+ and Control apps require higher-tier plans for full access |
| 🏠Smart home integration | Basic integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and more | Advanced integration with Google Nest, Z-Wave devices, and more |
| 📞Customer support | Phone, chat, email (hours vary) | 24/7 support via phone, online chat, FaceTime, online resources |
SimpliSafe vs ADT similarities
While SimpliSafe and ADT undoubtedly cater to different types of users, there are undeniable similarities between the two home security brands. Let’s check them out:
- Solid entry-level setups. Even for their most basic systems, both SimpliSafe and ADT include a high-quality base and at least 1 door or window sensor.
- High-quality equipment. Whether you’re protecting your indoor space or yard, both SimpliSafe and ADT will provide high-quality security equipment. Their packages start with the basics (entry sensors and motion detectors) and extend to cutting-edge HD cameras with night vision.
- Installation options. Although SimpliSafe is often thought of as a DIY system, you can also get professional installation if you’re not confident in your DIY skills. On the other hand, ADT primarily caters to folks who want things done by experts, but it does offer a DIY installation option with ADT Self Setup if you’d like to save some money.
- Smart home integration. You can set up smart home automations with either SimpliSafe or ADT, as both systems integrate with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Mobile app control. Both setups allow you to control systems remotely, view live footage, and receive notifications via their proprietary apps. However, full app functionality (remote arming/disarming and more) comes with the higher tiers in both cases.
- Customer support. Even if SimpliSafe is a youngster compared to ADT’s century-and-a-half reign, both companies are well-known for focusing on customer satisfaction. You could ask questions and resolve issues via phone, chat, and online resources in both cases.
SimpliSafe vs. ADT differences
Despite all the similarities between the two, these security systems also differ in multiple areas. So, let’s take a look at the discrepancies:
- 24/7 monitoring. ADT’s only self-monitoring system is ADT Self Setup, so professional monitoring is essentially the default option for all other ADT plans. Meanwhile, SimpliSafe treats it more like an add-on, so you’ll have to shell out a few extra bucks per month for this service.
- Third-party integrations. While pairing up with Alexa and Google Assistant is standard across the board, SimpliSafe also integrates with Apple Watch devices and August Smart Locks. Meanwhile, ADT focuses more on Nest Aware and Z-Wave, offering deeper integration with more automation features.
- Reputation and scale. ADT has been around for more than 150 years, so it’s already a well-established company with nationwide coverage. SimpliSafe is less than 2 decades old, but it has already built a name for itself in the DIY home security community.
- Service and support. ADT is traditionally known for its 24/7 professionally monitored solutions via 6 company-operated centers. Simplisafe, on the other hand, is handled by a third-party provider, and its service hours may vary.
- Contract obligations. ADT’s longer 36-month contract can feel restrictive, especially if you’re renting or considering a move. There are also early cancellation fees. In those cases, SimpliSafe’s no-contract model will be a much better fit. Plus, you get to cancel those month-to-month payments anytime you want to, with no penalties to worry about.
- Target audience. The no-contract model that SimpliSafe offers is undeniably more suited to renters. Even first-time buyers will find it a better option due to its budget-conscious plans. Conversely, ADT caters more to users who are certain about their needs, including families who want professional 24/7 monitoring and those who don’t plan to move.
- Guarantees and trials. SimpliSafe offers a 60-day money-back guarantee, which is pretty much the standard in the industry. This pales in comparison with ADT’s 6-month policy, where you can get a full refund if ADT doesn’t manage to resolve any system-related issue on its end.
- Pricing structure. The ADT home system generally follows a leasing model with higher upfront equipment prices and recurring monthly fees from leasing and professional monitoring costs. SimpliSafe’s model focuses more on upfront purchases, so you get to own the equipment outright. Self-monitoring is the default option, with professional monitoring being treated as an optional add-on.
ADT vs SimpliSafe system components
My table below is a quick-reference guide to what SimpliSafe and ADT home security packages offer. Keep in mind that this table focuses on the equipment, services, and features you get right out of the box with a standard subscription. So, you might need to upgrade your plan for additional functionalities. But let’s have a look:
| What’s included | SimpliSafe’s The Foundation | ADT’s Life Safety |
| Base station/Hub | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Keypad | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Entry sensors | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (two sensors) |
| Motion sensor | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Glass break sensor | ❌ No (add-on) | ❌ No (add-on) |
| Smoke/CO sensor | ❌ No (add-on) | ✅ Yes |
| Indoor camera | ❌ No (add-on) | ❌ No (add-on) |
| Outdoor camera | ❌ No (add-on) | ❌ No (add-on) |
Now that you’re more familiar with the SimpliSafe and ADT security packages, you should know what you’ll get with the base package. SimpliSafe and ADT include a base station, keypad, mobile app access, DIY installation, and professional installation in their starter plans.
Other things that both home security systems provide are full app features, video verification, and priority dispatch. Plus, you’ll get free self-monitoring, entry sensors, and motion sensors.
What’s more, the entry-level price of ADT offers a default 24/7 professional monitoring. SimpliSafe’s basic package lacks such a feature. Instead, it has contract-free plans with optional monitoring.
However, the initial SimpliSafe cost also includes a lifetime warranty and hardware discounts with certain subscriptions, which is something that ADT lacks.
Still, there are a few features you won’t get regardless of whether you choose SimpliSafe or ADT. To enjoy the benefits of glass break sensors, smoke/CO sensors, and indoor and outdoor cameras, you’ll need to pay extra.
ADT vs SimpliSafe security cameras
Although both SimpliSafe and ADT offer security cameras, the types of equipment and features included differ between the two companies. Let’s take a closer look at their differences:
| Feature | SimpliSafe cameras | ADT cameras |
| Resolution | 1080p HD (new models) | 1080p HD (all models) |
| Field of view | 120° (indoor) | 130° (outdoor), 135° (indoor) |
| Night vision | Basic IR | Advanced IR, HDR (Nest) |
| Smart detection | Motion | Person/pet/vehicle, facial recognition |
| Continuous recording | No | Yes (Nest Aware) |
| Facial recognition | No | Yes (Nest Aware) |
| Integration | SimpliSafe system/app | ADT + Google Nest ecosystem |
| Installation | DIY | Professional or DIY |
| Price | More affordable | Higher, premium features |
As you can see, both brands feature 1080p HD resolution and night vision. However, ADT’s Nest cameras offer more bang for your buck, as you’re getting advanced night vision, better motion detection with facial recognition, and a wider field of view (FOV). ADT’s partnership with Google Nest also brings easier smart home integrations across the board.
On the other hand, SimpliSafe’s cameras are easier to install and provide reliable HD video at a more affordable price point. But that also means no facial recognition, no continuous recording, more basic motion detection and night vision, and a narrower FOV. Advanced camera features also require a subscription.
Ultimately, if you’re interested in video verification and continuous recording, you’ll need to go with ADT. Moreover, you’ll have to shell out for one of its higher-tier plans.
SimpliSafe vs ADT monitoring options
ADT and SimpliSafe also have different approaches in the way they offer security monitoring to homeowners. Here’s how they differ:
| Feature | SimpliSafe | ADT |
| Free self-monitoring | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (except limited DIY option) |
| Professional monitoring required | ❌ No (optional, month-to-month) | ✅ Yes (required, contract-based) |
| Contract required | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (36 months typical) |
| Network reliability | Third-party monitoring, hours vary | Multi-center ADT-owned, 24/7 redundancy |
| Video-verified alarms | ✅ Yes (higher-tier plans) | ✅ Yes (higher-tier plans) |
| Live agent intervention via camera | ✅ Yes (higher-tier plans) | ❌ No |
| Cancel anytime | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (early-cancellation fees) |
| Monthly monitoring cost | $9.99-$79.99 (no contract) | $24.99-$39.99 (contract required) |
| Smart home integration | Basic (Alexa, Google Assistant) | Advanced (Google Nest, Z Wave, more) |
One thing that sets ADT apart is its 24/7 professional monitoring as a standard feature across the board. You’ll also be connected to the company’s 6 monitoring centers. This offers plenty of redundancy because if one center ever goes offline, another can easily take over.
Here’s a quick look at ADT’s monitoring plans:
- Secure Monitoring. You’ll enjoy basic life safety and intrusion monitoring.
- Smart Monitoring. Everything in Secure Monitoring plus smart home controls.
- Complete Monitoring. The best ADT has to offer, including video verification and faster emergency response in case of trouble.
The entry-level monitoring plan starts at $24.99/month, while the top-tier one goes up to $39.99/month. Unfortunately, you’ll need to commit for at least 36 months, regardless of the plan you opt for.
In contrast, SimpliSafe’s greatest advantage lies in its monitoring flexibility. There are 6 different plans to choose from, including one with free self-monitoring. Moreover, there’s also self-monitoring with camera recordings ($9.99/month) and standard monitoring with automatic police dispatch ($22.99/month).
And if you opt for professional monitoring, you also receive secret alarms, Live Guard Protection (which includes two-way camera intervention), and video verification. However, these features also bump up the price, which ranges from $33.00/month to $79.99/month.
In any case, all 6 of SimpliSafe’s plans are available on a month-to-month, no-contract basis, so that’s a massive advantage.
Based on my review, I can say that ADT’s monitoring plans have a few more features, such as professional monitoring and advanced smart home integration. But if you’re looking for a no-contract home security solution, then SimpliSafe can be your perfect option.
ADT vs SimpliSafe installation
SimpliSafe is best known for its flexible DIY installation approach, although you can also let the company’s experts install the security system for you. Conversely, ADT requires professional installation for most of its systems, with ADT Self Setup being the only exception.
Installing SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe’s installation is a breeze. You just need to place the base station, position the entry sensors, install the motion sensors, and activate the system. The best part is that the SimpliSafe sensors don’t require drilling. Most of them are peel-and-stick, making your installation even easier.
Installing ADT
When it comes to ADT, you don’t need to do anything. Their crew will arrive at your home and install everything. Also, they’ll explain to you how everything works, which is great if you don’t have any technical expertise.
Both SimpliSafe and ADT have simple installations. The only difference is that SimpliSafe focuses on flexibility and customization, while ADT is better for non-technical users.
ADT vs SimpliSafe app
SimpliSafe and ADT also have mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices. Each app has all the features you need for remote system control and monitoring. Still, let’s take a more detailed look at the two:
| Features | SimpliSafe app | ADT app |
| Arm/disarm system | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Live camera view | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Push notifications | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Download/save video clips | ✅ Yes (with subscription) | ✅ Yes (with subscription) |
| Smart home integration | Basic (Alexa, Google Assistant) | Advanced (Google Nest, Z-Wave, Alexa, more) |
| Remote device control | Limited (with subscription) | Full (lights, locks, thermostats, scenes, etc.) |
| App store ratings (iOS/Android) | 4.8/4.4 | 4.8/4.4 |
| Apple Watch support | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Location-based automation | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Customer support via app | ✅ Yes (chat, email, phone; hours vary) | ✅ Yes (24/7, includes FaceTime) |
| Full features require a higher-tier plan | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
SimpliSafe app
The SimpliSafe Home Security app allows you to arm/disarm the system, view live video, and receive notifications, including access to a timeline of events. Many users highlight the app’s ease of use, which has earned it a 3.8-star rating on the App Store and 4.5 on Google Play. However, some users report camera connectivity issues and frustration over the inability to delete video timelines manually.
ADT Pulse app
ADT’s app offers similar functionality with added integration for smart lights, locks, and thermostats. Due to this, you can have a more integrated smart home experience.
ADT’s app also supports custom scenes and scheduling, which enrich automation options for home or business security. This expanded functionality may have contributed to its high ratings – 4.8 on the App Store and 4.7 on Google Play – although some users have expressed dissatisfaction with notification delays and occasional connectivity issues.
As you can see, both mobile apps of these home security systems offer a wide range of features. However, ADT sets itself apart because it has location-based automation and Apple Watch support.
Monitoring plans & pricing comparison
Now, I’d like to provide you with a clear breakdown of the key costs, so here’s a quick comparison table for SimpliSafe and ADT’s plans. This table covers monitoring, equipment, contract terms, and installation fees.
| SimpliSafe | ADT | |
| Monitoring cost | Starts at $22.80/month for Standard Plan, up to $79.80/month for Pro Plus plan (no-contract) | Starts at $24.99/month for Secure Monitoring, up to $39.99/month for Complete Monitoring (36-month contract) |
| Equipment cost |
|
|
| Contract | Month-to-month with no contract | 36-month minimum (early cancellation fees apply) |
| Installation fee | Free for DIY, or optional $99–$124.99 for professional setup | $99–$199 for professional installation (mandatory for ADT Command) |
| Money-back guarantee | 60 days (full refund) | 180 days (if ADT fails to resolve issues on its end within 6 months of your first system activation) |
The two systems vary widely in pricing. However, what you get is also quite different in each case. In my view, SimpliSafe is perfect for users looking for a budget-friendly and flexible option with contract-free monitoring plans and DIY installation.
On the other hand, ADT comes with a higher upfront cost and long-term commitment in exchange for an extensive suite of features. These include professional installation and advanced smart home integration.
SimpliSafe vs ADT customer support
High-quality equipment and flexible monitoring options are one thing, but customer support is just as important when it comes to choosing a home security system. That said, let’s take a look at how SimpliSafe and ADT stack up in this department:
| Feature | SimpliSafe | ADT |
| Phone support | 8:00-00:00 (ET) | 24/7 |
| Live chat | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Live agents | 24/7 | Monday through Friday: 8:00-22:00 (ET); Saturday and Sunday: 8:00-20:00 (ET) |
| Email support | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Community support | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Support/help center | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
SimpliSafe receives a lot of praise for its super-friendly and knowledgeable customer support agents across review platforms, Google, and Amazon. Many commenters also note how the company’s reps are particularly helpful during troubleshooting.
However, there are a handful of comments left by frustrated users whose issues SimpliSafe’s agents couldn’t resolve.
This is to be expected and is also the case for ADT, with a few negative reviews highlighting longer hold times, as well. Nonetheless, the majority of feedback is positive, with users praising ADT’s 24/7 phone support and detailed Support Center page.
Other home security systems you might be interested in:
SimpliSafe vs Ring: Which home security system is better?
ADT vs Ring: Which home security system is a better choice?
Arlo vs Ring: Which security system is better for you?
Vivint vs ADT: Which security system wins the competition?
Final word on the SimpliSafe vs. ADT comparison
All things considered, SimpliSafe is the better option overall. Its systems are more DIY-friendly, its plans are more flexible with no contracts required, and its equipment will put a smaller dent in your pocket. That said, both SimpliSafe and ADT make sense in specific situations.
Choose SimpliSafe if:
- You want to install the security system yourself.
- You’re a renter or plan to move anytime soon.
- You don’t want to get locked into long-term contracts.
- You’re looking for more affordable equipment and flexible monitoring options.
Choose ADT if:
- You prefer to let professionals handle the installation.
- You’re a homeowner and don’t plan on switching houses or apartments.
- You don’t mind signing a contract.
- You want high-end cameras with all the latest features.
And if you’re still not sure, you can find more information in our in-depth SimpliSafe review. Alternatively, read more about ADT’s well-established brand in our comprehensive ADT review.
FAQ
How does ADT self-setup work?
ADT’s Self-Setup option lets you install the security system by yourself. You can choose from several pre-paired devices (cameras, sensors, devices) and set them up through the ADT app. It begins with account creation via the app, followed by smart home hub setup.
Can I self-monitor with ADT?
Yes, ADT’s Self-Setup allows self-monitoring. You can control the system via the ADT app, receiving alerts and managing devices. However, ADT will not contact emergency services for you during an alarm event. You will not get 24/7 oversight with this option.
What is the downside of SimpliSafe?
One downside is limited smart home compatibility compared to ADT.
SimpliSafe offers basic integration with Alexa and Google Assistant but lacks ADT's advanced automation features.
Some users reported occasional camera connectivity issues, while some did not appreciate the video quality.
Which security system is better for renters?
SimpliSafe is the better security system for renters because of its practicality, flexibility, and costs.
SimpliSafe is significantly cheaper than ADT and offers a quick setup with peel-and-stick elements. SimpliSafe is also contract-free, meaning renters can relocate their system without penalties.
Can I install SimpliSafe myself?
Yes, you can. In fact, it’s even encouraged, as SimpliSafe is well-known for its DIY-friendly equipment and effortless installation. However, if you’re not feeling up to the task, you can also opt for a professional installation. This way, SimpliSafe’s expert technicians will take care of everything for you, for a fee of around $125.
Am I locked into a long contract with ADT?
Unfortunately, you will be if you opt for ADT. While SimpliSafe offers flexible month-to-month payments with the ability to cancel anytime you feel like it with no penalties, ADT requires a contract. This typically involves a 36-month monitoring agreement, although in California, the commitment is only 24 months.
