SimpliSafe vs. Ring: which home security system is better

When it comes to your and your home’s security, it’s important to make the best choice possible, striking a balance between quality and price. With their advanced features, smart home integration, flexible pricing, no-contract policies, and a DIY-friendly installation approach, both SimpliSafe and Ring offer balanced solutions. But which one is the strongest contender out of the two?

I reviewed these two providers with the Cybernews research team to see how they compare in terms of features, pricing, customer support, and customizability. I’ve analyzed user reviews and provider details and reviewed third-party tests.

Below, I’ll break down the main similarities, differences, and factors that may affect your decision in order to help you find the best home security system for your needs and wallet.

SimpliSafe vs. Ring: In a nutshell

SimpliSafe and Ring both strive to provide users with approachable and personalized home security options, catering to the growing demand for systems that don’t require professional installation, offer more wallet-friendly pricing, and fit seamlessly into smart home environments – as opposed to some of the premium but less flexible options.

However, even despite all their similarities, these brands still have some differences. Below is a quick overview of their key features:

Now, let’s look at the providers’ similarities and differences.

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Ring vs. SimpliSafe similarities

SimpliSafe and Ring have major similarities, making both of them solid choices for homeowners who want flexible, affordable, and user-friendly security solutions. Below, I have summarized some of the most important points.

Key similarities:

• DIY installation: While SimpliSafe and Ring both have professional installation options, they are designed to be DIY-friendly, allowing even non-tech-savvy users to set up their systems. Both providers also offer extensive guides and live support to help you through the process, which might prove helpful if you’re looking to save money (as professional installation will cost you over $100).
• No contracts required: Neither SimpliSafe nor Ring requires long-term contracts, opting for a no-commitment model. This makes the providers a great pick for renters or homeowners who don’t want to be trapped in a long-term agreement. Meanwhile, if you want to pay in installments, SimpliSafe offers this option.
• Professional monitoring options: Both SimpliSafe and Ring offer professional 24/7 monitoring services that offer an additional pool of security features and have provider agents keeping an eye on things for an additional fee. While it is technically possible to opt out of this, both companies recommend professional monitoring.
• Mobile app access: Both brands have a mobile app that provides remote control over the system, with access to real-time alerts, cameras, and other features. It makes it easier to manage your system on the go, especially for office workers or those who travel a lot.

Ring vs. SimpliSafe differences

While SimpliSafe and Ring share a lot in common, they also have some significant differences that may be critical when deciding on a home safety system. Below is a quick overview of key points for you to consider.

Key differences:

• Smart home integration: Both providers offer smart home integration with distinct differences. SimpliSafe works with Google Assistant, Alexa, and August Locks, requiring a Core plan or higher. Voice commands can arm the system and check the status but cannot disarm it. Because Amazon owns Ring, it offers deeper integration options. It features full Alexa support for camera feeds, system control, and compatibility with various Z-Wave devices, including smart locks, switches, and garage controls. While Ring works with Google Home, this integration is limited to basic functions like battery checks. Neither system supports Apple HomeKit.
• Video monitoring: Ring strongly emphasizes video monitoring, with its core products including video doorbells and indoor/outdoor cameras. It also offers flexible video monitoring plans with many features, from snapshot capture to package alerts. SimpliSafe also offers video monitoring, but only as an optional add-on with a limited scope.
• Equipment pricing: SimpliSafe’s equipment and packages are generally more expensive, but the bundles are also more extensive and require fewer add-ons. Ring offers a more affordable base setup, although it is limited to a doorbell and camera, which usually requires additional purchases. Meanwhile, with SimpliSafe, you’ll instantly get a camera, a motion sensor, and at least three entry sensors.
• Range of monitoring options: SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring is known for its reliability and simplicity, although Ring’s plans may offer more options. For example, you can sign up for a premium –

SimpliSafe vs. Ring: features and tech

How do SimpliSafe and Ring compare on the essential security services and products – such as cameras, monitoring options, installation process, and support? Below is a breakdown of SimpliSafe and Ring’s features in key areas. Let’s see what each brand offers, how they compare, and which one proves to be the stronger option.

Security cameras

Ring really shines in camera choices, with a full suite of video doorbells and indoor, outdoor, spotlight, and floodlight cameras. They all provide HD video, Wi-Fi connectivity, and motion sensors, and some models have even more capabilities, such as high-quality audio or Bird's Eye View.

SimpliSafe's camera selection is more focused, with four cameras that include indoor and outdoor models. A less varied selection, these offer practical video features that include HD recording, night vision, and motion detection.

Conclusion

Ring's broader range of camera options and deeper video integration make it the superior choice for users who prioritize video monitoring, though SimpliSafe's offerings will satisfy basic security needs.

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Professional monitoring

SimpliSafe offers tiered professional monitoring that builds in features with each level. The Standard plan ($21.99/month) provides 24/7 professional monitoring, environmental monitoring, and cellular backup. The Core plan ($31.99/month) adds video verification, smart home integration, and indoor Active Guard protection. The Pro plan ($49.99/month) includes overnight outdoor Active Guard protection (8 PM-6 AM), while Pro Plus ($79.99/month) extends this to 24/7 coverage.

Ring has a simpler and no less thorough monitoring framework. Basic ($4.99/month) offers video history and smart alerts. The Plus plan ($10/month) adds extended video history and advanced features. The Pro plan ($20/month) includes professional monitoring with cellular backup and 24/7 backup internet. For $99/month, Ring also provides a Virtual Security Guard service to monitor security cameras in real time.

Conclusion

Ring has professional monitoring for substantially less while including video features and backup systems with far more robust options than SimpliSafe.

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Installation

Both systems promote their DIY-friendliness, with resources and assistance to aid you while configuring the system. Here's where SimpliSafe shines, as most components require no extra tools. Almost all equipment uses peel-and-stick adhesive, with only basic tools needed for doorbells and outdoor cameras.

Ring's installation is also straightforward but may require more setup steps, particularly for Wi-Fi configuration. Some users report occasional challenges syncing devices and connecting to Wi-Fi networks. Both brands offer professional installation options. The SimpliSafe professional installation starts at $124.99, while Ring provides installation through OnTech partners.

Conclusion

SimpliSafe's easier mounting options and more straightforward setup process give it the edge, although both systems are DIY-friendly.

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Customer support

Both brands offer customer support via various channels. SimpliSafe offers 24/7 email and phone support. Plus, most user reviews are positive regarding the helpful nature of customer service staff and how quickly they respond to calls. The company has extensive online resources in the form of setup and troubleshooting guides and video tutorials.

Ring support is available 24/7 by email and phone, and it has extensive online documentation. Ring also provides a detailed setup guide and great community forums online. In contrast, user reviews are more mixed, with some customers indicating that the responses take a long time, making it difficult to raise complex issues.

Conclusion

Both companies offer fairly extensive help resources, but according to user feedback and response times, SimpliSafe's customer support is more consistent and reliable.

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Plans and pricing

For many customers, pricing can be a deciding factor. SimpliSafe and Ring stand strong as more affordable options than industry giants like Vivint and strive to provide a reliable quality-to-price balance.

Below is a quick comparison of the plans and prices the two providers offer:

Overall, SimpliSafe has higher prices, with its plans ranging in price from $249.96 to $729.90, while you can get a basic Ring bundle for just $199. Ring, however, often involves spending more money on extras.

For example, despite the $199 price, the Ring Connected Basic Kit only includes two equipment pieces, with prices for additional sensors starting at $19.99. SimpliSafe’s starter pack costs $279.94 and consists of the base station, keypad, three entry sensors, and one motion sensor. The brand regularly offers 20% discounts year-round, with special sales bringing discounts up to 60% and sometimes including a free indoor camera.

However, when it comes to monitoring, Ring offers more wallet-friendly pricing – with Basic plans starting at just $4.99 a month – while offering comprehensive features like video history and person detection at every tier.

Both are great providers depending on your priorities, and each one provides customizability and flexibility in pricing plans.

A final word on the SimpliSafe vs. Ring comparison

In short, SimpliSafe and Ring both offer flexible plans, reliable monitoring options, and affordable pricing to cater to your home security needs. Both brands have pros and cons, so you must pick what aligns with your top priorities.

• Pick SimpliSafe for an excellent, reliable, professional monitoring system and quality hardware. That might make it attractive to those users who demand a little customization from their home security but may want customer support and optional professional installation.
• Choose Ring if you’re looking for advanced video monitoring options or want to focus on connecting your system to other smart home devices. With its integration capabilities, Ring is an excellent choice for users who want a high-tech, fully connected home security experience. It’s also a slightly more budget-friendly solution. However, expect a limited equipment set from the basic package.

The best home security system for you will depend on your priorities and budget and how much extra stuff matters to you, such as smart home automation. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong choosing between these two, so pick the solution that best meets your individual objectives based on the criteria I've outlined.

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