ADT and SimpliSafe are both well-known and highly-rated home security companies. Though they provide comprehensive security options, there are a few differences between these two companies. ADT offers professional installation and free in-home quotes, while SimpliSafe allows customers to install DIY equipment as well as letting buyers browse through pre-designed package prices online. While ADT and SimpliSafe are popular home security providers, they offer different experiences to their customers. They both offer competitive security packages, professional monitoring options, environmental monitoring, and home automation options, but they differ in terms of installation, contract length, and expansion options. 

What’s the Difference Between SimpliSafe and ADT? 

Simplisafe offers a few more ready-made equipment packages than ADT, but ADT offers the option of integrated home automation, however, both companies allow you to create custom systems. One of the biggest differences to note is SimpliSafe’s no-contract business model, which is atypical for the industry. In contrast, ADT’s average contract length is three years.

In addition, ADT is perhaps the most widely recognized name in home security, with over 140 years of experience and a diverse lineup of products, services, and optional add-ons, plus a 6-month money-back guarantees and $500 theft protection guarantee. SimpliSafe is a newer provider, but it offers plenty of contemporary appeals: Payment plans and installation are simple but flexible, there’s a generous 60-day trial period, and its equipment is modern and sleek.

Below is a side by side comparison table of all the important features across ADT and SimpliSafe: 

SimpliSafe ADT
Starting Cost $14.99-$24.99/month $36.99-$52.99/month
Plans 2 monitoring plans, pre-designed security systems, plus cameras and customized plans 3 monitoring plans, plus video surveillance, home automation, life safety, and customized plans
Requirements No contracts required Typically 36-month contracts
Installation Free (DIY); installation available for $79 $99
Monitoring 24/7 24/7
System Control Included with Interactive monitoring plan Included with Control and Video plans

Industry Experience: ADT Wins

ADT takes pride in being the longest-serving provider with the most industry experience. Helping customers for over 140 years, ADT is trusted by more than 7 million customers for security services and home automation products, molding the way for our homes and families to be protected and letting us breathe with ease. On the other hand, SimpliSafe has provided home security solutions for homeowners since 2006.

Equipment Cost: SimpliSafe Wins

When it comes to equipment, SimpliSafe wins. With the ability to purchase their products to own along with a suite of products geared towards DIY customers, SimpliSafe is the better provider for customers looking to get value for money. If you’re looking to rent equipment instead, ADT provides leasing and professional installation for homeowners.

Professional Monitoring Cost: SimpliSafe Wins

Out of the two providers, SimpliSafe provides lower professional monitoring costs. SimpliSafe features 2 monthly professional monitoring plans; Standard and Interactive. Both plans include 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular connection and environmental monitoring for customers looking for security beyond intrusion features. The Standard Plan costs about $14.99/mo. while the Interactive Plan is about $24.99/mo.

Home Automation: ADT Wins

When it comes to home automation, ADT home security is a step ahead with some of the products featuring Z-Wave technology. This feature allows their products to be used with many digital assistants, including Amazon Alexa, Google Home and more. While SimpliSafe has digital assistant compatibility, ADT security has a range of products to provide greater smart home functionality with your system.

Installation: ADT and SimpliSafe

ADT provides professional installation to take the guesswork out of self-installations, but if you’d prefer to install your system, SimpliSafe is the better option. A few perks of ADT’s professional installation is that someone will be there to answer any equipment questions you might have, as well as share security advice based on your home and equipment placement.

Environmental Monitoring: ADT and SimpliSafe

Both ADT and SimpliSafe monitored systems provide several options for environmental monitoring. With flood sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and more, these providers work to ensure you’re safe beyond intrusion protection. Depending on the package you choose, different products may come included, or you could purchase them separately.

Differences: ADT vs. SimpliSafe

The two home security providers differ greatly in terms of installation, features, and prices. Compared with ADT, SimpliSafe gives you more flexibility in setting up your own security system and it costs less. However, ADT has unmatched industry experience, professional installation, and home automation options. Furthermore, compared to SimpliSafe, ADT monitored systems have the edge on innovative security and smart home equipment which ultimately gives them the edge. 

ADT offers smart home solutions that also help advance your home’s security and provide you with extra convenience and ease in your life. While ADT systems is the overall winner, SimpliSafe is still a great choice if you are looking for DIY installation and lower monitoring costs. If you’re still not sure about which is for you, consider what you need in a home security system as these options suit different priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions about ADT and SimpliSafe

Does either ADT or SimpliSafe provide professional installation?

  • ADT provides professional installation for its security systems. SimpliSafe allows you to self-install its security systems.

Does ADT security require a long-term contract?

  • ADT’s systems require a 36-month contract (or a 24-month contract for California residents).

Does SimpliSafe security require a long-term contract?

  • No, but you do have to pay for all of your equipment upfront. After that, you can pay a month-to-month subscription to SimpliSafe’s monitoring services.

What types of packages do ADT and SimpliSafe provide?

  • ADT offers four home security packages with the basic package including essentials such as sensors and signage. SimpliSafe offers a range of packages with its basic package including necessary equipment like an entry sensor, door sensor and signage as well.

What kind of monitoring do ADT and SimpliSafe provide?

  • ADT provides several professional monitoring options that vary in price and offers you 24/7 security your home needs. SimpliSafe, on the other hand, has two monitoring plan options; the Standard Plan and the Interactive Plan, both of which feature around-the-clock monitoring, a cellular connection, and environmental monitoring.