Introducing SimpliSafe and Ring
SimpliSafe and Ring are two leading DIY home security systems on the market today. Both companies offer wireless security systems, professional monitoring options, mobile apps and smart home integration. But they have key differences when it comes to pricing, equipment, monitoring plans and more.
SimpliSafe
Founded in 2006, SimpliSafe pioneered no-contract, DIY security systems. Their systems are wireless, easy for homeowners to install themselves, and entirely customizable with a wide range of monitoring options.
Key features:
- Packages start at $229
- No contracts required
- 60-day risk-free trial
- DIY installation
- 24/7 professional monitoring for $15/month
- Cellular and landline connection options
- Indoor and outdoor cameras
- Integration with smart home devices
Ring
Acquired by Amazon in 2018, Ring offers affordable DIY security packages tailored for smart home integration with Alexa voice commands and automation.
Key features:
- Packages from $139
- No contract required
- 30-day trial
- DIY installation
- 24/7 professional monitoring from $10/month
- Cellular backup connection
- Indoor/outdoor security cameras
- Integration with Alexa and smart devices
Comparing Pricing and Equipment
When it comes to upfront costs, Ring edges out SimpliSafe with more affordable starting packages, as seen in the table below. However, SimpliSafe offers higher-tier packages with more comprehensive equipment and longer warranty periods.
| System | Starting Price | Equipment | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| SimpliSafe | $229 | Base station, keypad, entry sensor, motion sensor | 1 year (3 years for $489+ systems) |
| Ring | $139 | Base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector, range extender | 1 year |
Both SimpliSafe and Ring offer a la carte options to customize your system with additional devices like smoke detectors, flood sensors, smart locks, cameras and more. SimpliSafe offers a particularly wide range of specialized sensors for rooms like basements and attics.
Monitoring Plan Comparison
SimpliSafe and Ring both offer professional monitoring plans starting at $15 and $10 per month, respectively. The table below describes key differences in their monitoring features:
| Monitoring Options | SimpliSafe | Ring |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 professional monitoring | $15/month | $10/month |
| Contract required? | No | No |
| Self-monitoring | Free | Free |
| Cellular backup | Yes | $10/month add-on |
| Video recording storage | Additional fees apply | Free remote storage |
While Ring‘s basic monitoring is cheaper, SimpliSafe offers complimentary cellular backup to keep your system connected in internet and power outages. Ring charges extra for cellular backup. But Ring provides free video event storage with any Ring Protect monitoring plan.
Both systems offer contract-free month-to-month professional monitoring services. This gives you the flexibility to cancel or pause monitoring anytime.
Smart Home Integration
As Amazon‘s home security arm, Ring offers native integration in the Alexa and Echo ecosystem. You can use Alexa voice commands to arm, disarm or check system status. Ring also works with other popular platforms like Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings and IFTTT for easy smart home integration.
SimpliSafe also recently introduced compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant. You can control your SimpliSafe system through voice commands or set up automations with other smart devices. Customers note SimpliSafe‘s smart integration is still catching up with Ring‘s capabilities however.
Installation and Setup Process
Both DIY home security providers ship pre-programmed equipment with all necessary mounting hardware included. Their systems are designed for quick, wireless installation without hardwiring or drilling.
SimpliSafe offers both DIY installation instructions or professional installation by a SimpliSafe technician (starting at $199). Ring provides DIY guidelines but currently does not offer professional installation services.
Many reviewers found SimpliSafe‘s equipment quicker and easier to self-install over Ring. But Ring provides more helpful support through setup if issues arise.
Mobile App and Remote Management
SimpliSafe and Ring both offer intuitive mobile apps to remotely arm, disarm and customize your system from anywhere.
Key mobile app features:
| Remote system access | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
| Alert notifications | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
| HD video streaming | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
| Custom modes and rules | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
Reviewers praise both apps for their intuitive interfaces, reliable connectivity and practical features. Ring stands out for its broader smart home management capabilities.
Indoor/Outdoor Security Cameras
SimpliSafe and Ring both offer wireless indoor/outdoor security cameras that integrate directly with their monitoring systems:
Ring Spotlight Cam
- 1080HD video
- Infrared night vision
- Motion-activated alerts
- Motion-activated LED lighting
- Two-way talk
SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera Pro
- 2K HD video quality
- 160-degree viewing angle
- Color night vision
- Weatherproof
- Two-way audio
The SimpliSafe Pro camera line delivers superior video resolution and components. But Ring provides spotlight cameras to help illuminate and deter intruders. Both systems record video events securely to the cloud for easy online and mobile access.
Customer Support
SimpliSafe and Ring aim to provide responsive customer service through varied channels:
| Phone | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
| Live Chat | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
| Support Articles | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
| Installation Help | ❌ SimpliSafe | ❌ Ring |
Customers report very responsive support across both platforms. Ring users highlight easier access to troubleshooting for installation issues. SimpliSafe wins praise for friendlier and more personalized support interactions.
SimpliSafe vs. Ring: Key Differences
The Verdict: Which is Better For You?
In the final analysis, the better home security system comes down to your budget, facility requirements and smart home ecosystem.
Those wanting a robust system with cellular backup and superior video surveillance should choose SimpliSafe. But budget-conscious buyers wanting seamless smart home functionality will prefer Ring as the best value.
Both deliver flexible, DIY-friendly security solutions. SimpliSafe excels at comprehensive monitoring protection while Ring focuses on device integration. Match your priorities against their respective strengths to determine the right provider for your home.
