SimpliSafe Home Security Review (2026)

Last Updated: January 2026

SimpliSafe is known for DIY installation, no long-term contracts, and Intruder Intervention—letting monitoring agents see and speak through your cameras to deter break-ins. We review features, pricing, and who it's best for.

What SimpliSafe Does Well

SimpliSafe has carved out a clear position: contract-free, DIY-friendly home security with professional monitoring that goes beyond traditional alarm response. Its standout features are Intruder Intervention and Active Guard. When an alarm is triggered, monitoring agents can view live video from your cameras and speak through them to warn intruders that police have been notified. That combination of video verification and two-way audio is meant to stop break-ins before they escalate.

The system is modular. You choose a base station, keypad, sensors, and cameras from a clear lineup. Kits are offered at several price points; you can also build your own. Setup uses peel-and-stick mounting and in-app instructions. Many users are done in under an hour. Cellular backup is built into the base so the alarm can signal the monitoring center even if Wi-Fi or power fails.

Equipment and Plans

Hardware is sold upfront. There's no financing through SimpliSafe, but there's also no long-term commitment. Entry kits start around a few hundred dollars; larger homes or more cameras cost more. The camera selection is smaller than Ring's, but the indoor camera and doorbell work with Fast Protect and Intruder Intervention when you have an Interactive Monitoring plan.

Monitoring is optional. Self-monitoring is free: you get app alerts and can arm and disarm. For professional monitoring, you need either the Standard or Interactive Monitoring plan. Interactive adds remote arming, video alerts, and Intruder Intervention. Monthly fees are in the mid to high twenties, which is competitive with other pro-monitored DIY systems.

Smart Home and App Experience

SimpliSafe works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for arming, disarming, and status. There's also integration with August and Yale smart locks, Nest thermostats, and a few other devices. The ecosystem isn't as broad as Vivint or Ring, but it covers the basics for many households.

The app is clean and focused on security: arm/disarm, view camera streams, see event history, and manage devices. It's not built to be a full smart home hub, which can be a plus if you want simplicity and fewer distractions.

Who SimpliSafe Is Best For

SimpliSafe fits budget-conscious homeowners and renters who want professional monitoring without a contract. It's also a strong choice if you care about proactive deterrence: Intruder Intervention is one of the few mainstream offerings that lets monitors use your cameras to challenge intruders in real time. If you prefer a large camera and doorbell ecosystem or deep smart home automation, Ring or Vivint may offer more. If you want the most flexible, contract-free option with serious monitoring features, SimpliSafe is among the best.

Pros

  • Intruder Intervention and Active Guard
  • No long-term contract
  • Simple DIY installation
  • Cellular backup in base station
  • Works with Alexa and Google

Cons

  • Fewer camera and smart home options than Ring or Vivint
  • Pro install is outsourced, not in-house
  • No equipment financing

FAQs

What is Intruder Intervention?
With Interactive Monitoring, agents can view live video from your cameras when the alarm trips and speak through them to warn intruders that police are being dispatched. It's meant to stop break-ins before they escalate.
Does SimpliSafe require a contract?
No. You can use self-monitoring for free or pay month-to-month for professional monitoring.
Can I take SimpliSafe when I move?
Yes. The system is wireless and DIY-installed, so you can uninstall and reinstall at a new address. You'll need to update your monitoring account with the new location.

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