SimpliSafe vs Ring: Which Security System is the Better Investment?

As a homeowner, I know how essential it is to have a reliable security system that offers peace of mind without breaking the bank. Whether you’re at home or miles away, having a dependable setup to monitor and protect your property can make all the difference. When considering options, two names often come up: SimpliSafe vs Ring. These DIY security systems have become popular for their affordability, comprehensive features, and ease of use. With recent changes in pricing, features, and even branding for both companies, it’s a good time to reassess which might be the best fit for your needs.

In this article, I’ll compare Ring and SimpliSafe across five key categories: value, monitoring, equipment, smart features, and customer service. By diving into these aspects, we can see how these systems stack up and help you make an informed decision.

Simplisafe vs Ring: Value

When evaluating the value of a home security system, it’s important to consider the initial cost of the equipment and the ongoing expenses for monitoring. Both Ring and SimpliSafe offer equipment kits ranging from $200 to $700 and have monitoring fees between $20 and $30 per month. Neither company requires contracts or charges hidden fees, making them straightforward choices for those who value flexibility.

Ring’s basic package starts at $199.99 and includes a base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector, and range extender. For more extensive coverage, they offer kits with up to 14 pieces. SimpliSafe’s equipment packages also start at $199.99 for their 5-piece kit, which includes a base station, keypad, entry sensor, and motion sensor. Their more comprehensive packages, like the Haven, include additional entry sensors, motion detectors, and even hazard sensors for fire and carbon monoxide detection.

While Ring’s entry-level packages tend to be cheaper, SimpliSafe often includes more comprehensive equipment, making it a better value for those who need a complete system. For example, SimpliSafe’s higher-end packages come with additional features such as wireless outdoor security cameras and extra entry sensors. Additionally, SimpliSafe offers discounts for military, medical personnel, teachers, and first responders, adding even more value for those eligible. Overall, SimpliSafe tends to provide more bang for your buck, especially if you opt for one of their bundled packages.

Simplisafe vs Ring: Monitoring

Professional monitoring is a critical aspect of any home security system, ensuring that you have backup in case of emergencies. Both Ring and SimpliSafe offer competitive monitoring services, but there are some differences worth noting.

SimpliSafe offers two monitoring plans: Fast Protect ($30/month) and Self-Monitoring with Cameras ($10/month). The Fast Protect plan includes 24/7 professional monitoring and SimpliSafe’s unique Live Guard feature, where a monitoring professional can view and communicate through your camera if an alarm is triggered. This direct intervention can be invaluable in emergencies, reducing the chances of false alarms and ensuring quick responses.

Ring offers three subscription plans, but only one, the Ring Protect Pro ($20/month), includes professional monitoring. This plan also offers cellular backup to keep your system running during internet outages and six months of video history, which is one of the longest in the industry. Additionally, Ring Protect Pro includes SOS calling, allowing you to call for help directly through the Ring app.

While Ring’s video storage capabilities are impressive, SimpliSafe’s Live Guard feature sets it apart, providing an extra layer of security that can make a real difference in critical situations. Therefore, for comprehensive and proactive monitoring, SimpliSafe edges out Ring in this category.

Simplisafe vs Ring: Equipment

When it comes to equipment, both Ring and SimpliSafe offer robust selections, but their focuses differ slightly. Ring is renowned for its extensive camera lineup, which includes several video doorbells, indoor and outdoor cameras, and even a car cam. Their cameras typically offer 1080p resolution, providing clear and reliable footage. Ring’s integration with Eero Wi-Fi routers also ensures strong connectivity, which is essential for maintaining a seamless security system.

SimpliSafe, while not as camera-centric, excels in offering a wide range of sensors and hazard detectors. Their equipment lineup includes entry sensors, motion detectors, glass break sensors, and hazard sensors for smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide. SimpliSafe also offers a popular Smart Lock, key fobs for easy system arming and disarming, panic buttons, and extra sirens.

One of the standout features of SimpliSafe’s equipment is the Smart Alarm Indoor Camera, which integrates with their Live Guard monitoring feature. While Ring offers more camera options and advanced features like customizable motion zones and person detection, SimpliSafe provides a more rounded approach to home security with its extensive sensor lineup.

Overall, if cameras are your primary concern, Ring offers a broader selection and more advanced options. However, for comprehensive home security that includes hazard detection and a variety of sensors, SimpliSafe is the better choice.

Simplisafe vs Ring: Smart Features

Both Ring and SimpliSafe offer smart home compatibility, but their integrations and features vary. Ring integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and offers Z-Wave compatibility, allowing you to expand your system with third-party devices. This makes Ring an excellent choice for those looking to create a highly integrated smart home ecosystem.

SimpliSafe, on the other hand, works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, but doesn’t support as many third-party devices as Ring. Their smart home integrations are more limited, focusing primarily on basic automation and voice control. SimpliSafe’s app is minimalistic, offering straightforward access to system status, settings, and camera feeds, while Ring’s app is more detailed and busy, reflecting its extensive range of features and device compatibility.

Ring’s edge in smart features is further enhanced by its partnership with Eero, providing Wi-Fi-expanding capabilities that ensure all devices remain connected without slowing down your network. This feature is particularly useful for larger homes or those with multiple smart devices. Therefore, for smart home enthusiasts who want extensive integration and flexibility, Ring is the superior choice.

Simplisafe vs Ring: Customer Service

Customer service is an often overlooked but critical aspect of any home security system. From troubleshooting issues to handling returns, good customer support can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

SimpliSafe offers a 60-day return policy, a lifetime warranty on equipment for Fast Protect subscribers, and extensive customer support resources, including articles and FAQs. Their customer service reviews are generally positive, highlighting their commitment to helping users with any issues they encounter.

Ring’s return policy is only 30 days, and their equipment warranty lasts two years. While Ring provides a wide range of support articles and has a global reach, being available in over a dozen countries, their customer service reviews are mixed, with some users reporting less satisfactory experiences.

Given the more generous return policy, lifetime warranty for subscribers, and generally positive customer service reviews, SimpliSafe takes the lead in this category. Their customer-centric policies and support resources ensure that you’re well taken care of, should any issues arise with your security system.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, while both Ring and SimpliSafe offer robust and reliable home security solutions, each has its strengths. SimpliSafe shines in value, monitoring features, and customer service, making it a strong choice for those seeking comprehensive protection and peace of mind. Ring, with its extensive camera options and smart home integrations, is ideal for tech-savvy users looking to create a connected home environment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs and priorities, but both systems provide solid, trustworthy options for keeping your home safe and secure.