SimpliSafe vs ADT
SimpliSafe vs ADT is DIY versus professional installation, no-contract versus commitment. SimpliSafe disrupted ADT's traditional model. ADT has adapted but fundamental differences remain in approach and cost.
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Quick Answer
SimpliSafe beats ADT for most users. It scores 9.3/10 vs 8.4/10 and no long-term contracts required. Choose ADT if you need most trusted brand in security.
SimpliSafe
WinnerNo-contract DIY security with professional monitoring
Starting from
$9.99/mo
ADT
Most trusted name with professional installation
Starting from
$24.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.3/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Starting Price | $9.99/mo | $24.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Monitoring | ||
| Professional Monitoring | ||
| Self Monitoring | ||
| Cellular Backup | ||
| Battery Backup | ||
| Cameras | ||
| Video Doorbell | ||
| Indoor Cameras | ||
| Outdoor Cameras | ||
| Features | ||
| Smart Home | Alexa/Google | Google/Z-Wave |
| DIY Install | ||
| Contract Required | 36 months | |
Pros & Cons Breakdown
SimpliSafe
- No long-term contracts required
- Easy 30-minute DIY installation
- Affordable professional monitoring
- Cellular backup included
- Works during power outages
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Outdoor cameras are limited
- App could be more intuitive
- Price increased for monitoring plans
ADT
- Most trusted brand in security
- 6 professional monitoring centers
- Professional installation included
- Wide range of equipment options
- Google Home integration
- Theft protection guarantee
- Requires 3-year contract
- Higher monthly costs than DIY
- Early termination fees apply
Key Difference
SimpliSafe is DIY with no contract at ~$15-25/month. ADT requires contracts (usually 3 years) at ~$30-60/month but includes professional installation. Flexibility versus hands-off service.
Which Should You Choose?
SimpliSafe
Choose SimpliSafe if you can self-install confidently, want no long-term contract, prefer lower monthly monitoring costs, or want to avoid professional installation fees.
ADT
Choose ADT if you want professional installation, prefer an established company with proven response, need the largest monitoring network, or want someone else to handle setup.
Our Verdict
SimpliSafe wins on flexibility and value with no contracts and lower costs. ADT wins on professional monitoring network with more monitoring centers and longer track record. DIY comfort and budget guide this choice.
Thinking of Switching?
ADT contracts have early termination fees - verify your obligations. SimpliSafe equipment is owned, not leased. If moving from ADT to SimpliSafe, you're trading professional service for significant savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SimpliSafe better than ADT?
SimpliSafe scores higher in our testing (9.3/10 vs 8.4/10). SimpliSafe excels at no long-term contracts required, while ADT is better for most trusted brand in security.
Which is cheaper, SimpliSafe or ADT?
SimpliSafe is more affordable at $9.99/mo vs $24.99/mo. SimpliSafe offers 60% savings.
SimpliSafe vs ADT: which should I choose?
Choose SimpliSafe if you prioritize no long-term contracts required. Choose ADT if you need most trusted brand in security. Both are solid home security options.
What's the main difference between SimpliSafe and ADT?
The main difference is SimpliSafe offers no-contract diy security with professional monitoring, while ADT focuses on most trusted name with professional installation.