The modern homeowner has more alternatives to traditional, wired, and landline-based home security systems than ever before, but it can be hard to tell the difference between all the new companies in the industry.
In this comparison review, we’ll break down two of the most prominent home security companies—SimpliSafe and Ring—and compare their products, services, and costs to help you choose the best home security system for your home.
Both Ring and SimpliSafe are reputable companies and both have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Ring has less expensive packages, a 1 year warranty, and a 30 day trial period. Although SimpliSafe has pricier packages, it offers a longer warranty period of 3 years and a longer trial period of 60 days.
Ring is the first name in video doorbells and the product that birthed the company in 2013. Ring was purchased by Amazon in 2018 for $1.2 billion.
SimpliSafe is a relative newcomer to the security industry, growing out of a need for portable, self-installable security equipment that renters could use and take with them.
Like SimpliSafe, the Ring alarm system allows for self-monitoring, and you won’t need to pay any extra fees to receive mobile alerts and control the system via a mobile app.
To activate video recording for a single camera, you’ll need the Ring Protect Basic plan. If you want 24/7 professional monitoring and video recording for multiple cameras, you can sign up for the Ring Protect Plus plan.
The SimpliSafe system starts with a package called The Foundation that includes basic home security equipment. The four other packages add additional equipment as necessary, but you can buy most of the hardware on an a la carte basis.
With SimpliSafe, you have the option of self-monitoring or you can choose professional monitoring on a month-to-month basis with no contract required.
Although Ring has only three hardware packages, you’ll get a 10% discount on extra equipment purchases if you choose one of them.
If you choose to purchase a Ring Protect plan, they can be paid either monthly or yearly and don’t require a contract. The plans are optional and are not required in order to use Ring products.
If you want to self-monitor, you’ll just have to purchase the SimpliSafe hardware. However, SimpliSafe offers a 20% discount on the equipment if you sign up for monitoring.
With any of these packages, the Standard Plan is $14.99 a month and the Interactive Plan is $24.99 a month. This monitoring fee is paid month to month and can be cancelled anytime. For cloud video storage, one camera costs $4.99 a month and two to 10 cameras cost $9.99 a month.
Which Newer Devices Work with the Original SimpliSafe System?
If you’re interested in upgrading various components of your SimpliSafe system, it’s essential to verify that they’re compatible. The All-New system added advanced security encryption, meaning some older devices won’t be able to communicate.
Currently, there are only two components that are backward compatible with the Original system. Here’s a list of the newer devices that are currently compatible/not compatible with the Original SimpliSafe System:
- The SimpliCam offers an optional Outdoor Kit.
- Entry, Motion, Glassbreak, etc.
If you’re looking to replace most components, you may need to upgrade your entire system. Fortunately, SimpliSafe has been offering a 40% trade-in program if you’re looking to upgrade your old system. For more information about their trade-in program, you can reach out to SimpliSafe Customer Service or check out this SimpliSafe forum.
The Original SimpliSafe system is still a strong candidate for your smart home security needs. Though it lacks some of the features of its newer counterpart, it’s still a great addition to any smart home. You can access a comparable level of home security, with only minor differences.
An additional note; the two systems are often referred to as SS2 (Original System) and SS3 (All-New System). Here are some quick features that showcase the updates with regards to the newer system:
Longer Signal Range Between Devices
Smaller Design
Updated Keypad
Smart Home Integration
We’ve established that the Video Doorbell Pro is compatible with the Original SimpliSafe system, but what features does it have to offer? The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell is designed with your security in mind:
| Feature | SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro |
| Video Resolution | 1080p HD |
| Field of View | 162 |
| Power | 8-24 VAC (Hardwired) |
| 2-Way Audio | ✔ |
| Motion Alerts | ✔ |
| IR Night Vision | ✔ |
The SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro requires an existing hardwired doorbell set up in order to power the unit. Here’s a helpful installation video tutorial as well as SimpliSafe’s Support Page for some useful installation tips.
Additionally, you will need a wireless internet connection to communicate with the Doorbell.
Fortunately, the Video Doorbell Pro is compatible with both the old and newer SimpliSafe systems. With this in mind, it might be worth the investment if you’re looking to boost your smart home security.
Every SimpliSafe starter kit comes with four essential security components: a base station, keypad, motion detector, and entry sensor. Without all four devices, your system isn’t fully set to detect when intruders enter your home. Everyone with a security system should build on this foundation.
The SimpliSafe entry sensor comes with a battery pre-installed and a door chime setting to tell you when someone enters or exits the house.
Leave this in your basement or crawlspace to warn you when things get too chilly for safety.
If your camera is set up in a shady spot where the solar panel wont work, consider this 25-foot USB power cord instead. Its rated for outdoor use but it wouldnt hurt to add extra protection with an electrical outlet cover.
And, because it’s separate from the base station, you’re still protected if the keypad is damaged.
How Are Ring and SimpliSafe Different?
Here are a few quick points of contrast between the two home security companies:
FAQ
How do I know which generation SimpliSafe I have?
Will SimpliSafe outdoor camera work with old system?
How do you upgrade SimpliSafe?
