A Comprehensive Comparison: ADT Home Security vs. SimpliSafe

ADT Home Security: The Established Leader

ADT is a household name in the home security industry, with a reputation for reliability and comprehensive protection. Founded 148 years ago, ADT has evolved to offer cutting-edge security solutions for modern homeowners. Here are some key features of ADT home security:

1. Professional Monitoring: ADT offers 24/7 professional monitoring services, providing round-the-clock protection for your home. Trained professionals monitor your home for signs of intrusion, fire, carbon monoxide, and other emergencies and are ready to dispatch emergency responders when needed.
2. Professional Installation: With ADT, professional installation is typically required. This ensures that all components of your security system are properly installed and configured for optimal performance. While this may come with an additional upfront cost, it provides peace of mind knowing that your system is set up correctly. (However, ADT offers a DIY system called ADT Self Setup.)
3. Integration with Smart Home Devices: ADT offers integration with a wide range of smart home devices, allowing you to control your security system, lights, locks, thermostats, and more from a single platform. This integration enhances convenience and allows for seamless automation of your home.
4. Google Nest Compatibility: ADT partners with Google Nest, allowing homeowners to integrate Google Nest security cameras, video doorbells, and Nest Aware with their ADT system. Customers can also use Google Assistant smart speakers and displays to arm their ADT system or watch live video from Nest security cameras. These integrations provide enhanced security and convenience, allowing you to monitor your home from anywhere and receive alerts for suspicious activity.

SimpliSafe: The DIY Alternative

SimpliSafe is a relative newcomer to the home security market but has quickly gained popularity for its user-friendly approach and affordable pricing. Here are some key features of SimpliSafe:

1. DIY Installation: SimpliSafe systems are designed for easy DIY installation, making them accessible to homeowners who prefer to set up their own security systems. The system has pre-configured components that can be easily installed without professional assistance. (Note: the company does offer professional installation if needed.)
2. No Contracts: Unlike ADT, SimpliSafe does not require long-term contracts. Instead, the company offers month-to-month monitoring plans, providing flexibility for homeowners who prefer not to commit to a lengthy contract.
3. Affordable Pricing: SimpliSafe offers competitive pricing, with affordable monthly monitoring plans starting at a fraction of the cost of traditional security systems. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners who still want reliable home protection.
4. Limited Integration: SimpliSafe's integration capabilities are more limited compared to ADT. While the system does offer some integration with smart home devices, it may not be as comprehensive as ADT's offerings.

Google Nest Integration with ADT vs. SimpliSafe

One key difference between ADT and SimpliSafe is their compatibility with Google Nest security cameras, video doorbells, services, and Google Assistant-enabled devices. ADT's partnership with Google Nest allows homeowners to seamlessly integrate these devices with their ADT system, providing enhanced security and convenience. With Google Nest cameras and doorbells, you can monitor your home in real time, receive alerts for suspicious activity, and even communicate with visitors remotely.

Unfortunately, SimpliSafe does not offer integration with Google Nest security cameras and video doorbells. While SimpliSafe offers its line of cameras and doorbells, which you can use Google Assistant smart speakers and displays to arm your system, they do not provide the same functionality and integration as ADT does with Google Nest devices. This limitation may be a drawback for homeowners with Google Nest devices or prefer the features that Google Nest cameras and doorbells offer.

Difference in Monitoring Plans between ADT and SimpliSafe

How do the professional monitoring plans for these smart home security systems differ? ADT and SimpliSafe monitoring differ in several key aspects, primarily in service, technology, and pricing.

1. Service: ADT offers professional monitoring services through its network of monitoring centers with trained operators. These centers provide 24/7 monitoring and can dispatch emergency services when necessary. SimpliSafe also offers professional monitoring but utilizes a third-party monitoring provider. While both offer similar services, the responsiveness and quality of customer support may vary.
2. Technology: ADT and SimpliSafe use different monitoring technologies. ADT utilizes a combination of cellular and landline connections, along with optional broadband monitoring. SimpliSafe primarily relies on a cellular connection for monitoring, with a built-in cellular chip in its base station. This cellular connection ensures the system remains operational even if the power goes out or the internet connection is down.
3. Pricing: ADT typically requires a long-term contract for its monitoring services, starting at $24.99 monthly and often ranging from 36 to 60 months. The cost of monitoring varies depending on the package and additional features chosen. SimpliSafe, on the other hand, offers flexible month-to-month monitoring plans without long-term contracts. This allows users to cancel or modify their monitoring services as needed without penalties.

While both ADT and SimpliSafe offer professional monitoring services for home security, they differ in terms of service structure, technology used, and pricing options. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between the two.