{"id":323715,"date":"2025-11-07T23:48:09","date_gmt":"2025-11-08T04:48:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/?page_id=127314"},"modified":"2025-11-07T23:48:10","modified_gmt":"2025-11-08T04:48:10","slug":"simplisafe-vs-ring","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/simplisafe-vs-ring\/","title":{"rendered":"SimpliSafe vs. Ring"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in protecting your home with a wireless security system, Ring and Simplisafe are two options worth comparing. Both are DIY-friendly with month-to-month service: SimpliSafe\u2019s professional monitoring starts at $19.99\/month (Standard) with an advanced Fast Protect tier at $29.99\/month, while Ring Alarm\u2019s professional monitoring is available with Ring Protect Pro at $20\/month; each brand also offers lower-cost camera plans if you prefer to self-monitor (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">SimpliSafe support<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">Ring support<\/a>). Ring supports video storage for up to 180 days in the U.S. on eligible plans (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360037722872-Video-Storage-Times\">Ring storage policy<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This review weighed current plan pricing and features, professional vs. self monitoring, recent satisfaction signals (including the 2024 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/business\/press-releases\/2024-us-home-security-satisfaction-study\">J.D. Power<\/a> study and live app-store feedback for <a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.simplisafe.mobile\">SimpliSafe<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.ringapp\">Ring<\/a>), and today\u2019s interoperability landscape (Matter 1.3\/1.4) to help you decide which <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/best\/\">home security system<\/a> fits your home (<a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">Matter 1.3<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">Matter 1.4<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n  <style>\n    .myFinance-widget {\n    min-height: 670px;\n    }\n  <\/style>\n  <div class=\"myFinance-widget\" data-widget-id=\"7c9fe833-dde7-4eb5-b71f-d741b8cccd66\" data-campaign=\"reviews-non-monitored-security\"><\/div>\n\n<script async=\"\" type=\"text\/javascript\" id=\"myFinance-widget-script\">\n  !function () {function e() {var s = \"myFinance-widget-ad-script\";if (!document.getElementById(s)) {var e = document.createElement(\"script\"), n = document.getElementById(\"myFinance-widget-script\"), a = t + \"widget\/myFinance.js\";e.id = s, e.type = \"text\/javascript\", e.async = !0, e.src = a, n.parentNode.insertBefore(e, n);}var c = \"myFinance-widget-css\";if (!document.getElementById(c)) {var d = document.getElementsByTagName(\"head\")[0], i = document.createElement(\"link\");i.id = c, i.rel = \"stylesheet\", i.type = \"text\/css\", i.href = t + \"widget\/myFinance.css\", i.media = \"all\", d.appendChild(i)}}var t = \"https:\/\/static.myfinance.com\/\";document.attachEvent ? document.attachEvent(\"onreadystatechange\", function () {\"complete\" === document.readyState && e()}) : document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", e, !1)}();\n<\/script>\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"overview\" title=\"Overview\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SimpliSafe vs. Ring Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped table-bordered table--bordered-top\"><table class=\"\"><tbody><tr><td><br><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\/monitoring?utm_source=reviews.com&amp;utm_medium=ppc&amp;utm_campaign=201810&amp;utm_term=r16527\">SimpliSafe<\/a><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B07D7Q6CHB\/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B07D7Q6CHB&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=r16528-20&amp;linkId=e3ac90d888851b942b61847720ce171a\">Ring<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cost for basic plan<\/td><td>From $9.99\/mo (Self Monitoring with Camera Recording) or $19.99\u2013$29.99\/mo (Standard\/Fast Protect pro monitoring) (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">details<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">details<\/a>)<\/td><td>From $4.99\/mo (Ring Protect Basic video) or $20\/mo (Protect Pro with professional monitoring for Ring Alarm) (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">details<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/217109766-Professional-Monitoring-for-Ring-Alarm-in-the-United-States\">monitoring<\/a>)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Monitoring<\/td><td>DIY or Professional (Standard or Fast Protect)<\/td><td>DIY or Professional (Protect Pro required for Ring Alarm monitoring)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fees<\/td><td>Taxes\/fees may apply; equipment sold separately (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">SimpliSafe<\/a>)<\/td><td>Taxes\/fees may apply; equipment sold separately (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">Ring<\/a>)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Terms<\/td><td>No contract; month-to-month<\/td><td>No contract; month-to-month<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Standout features<\/td><td>Fast Protect with 24\/7 <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">Live Guard Protection<\/a>; AI-driven Smart Deter on the <a href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\">Outdoor Camera Pro<\/a><\/td><td>Pro monitoring via <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/217109766-Professional-Monitoring-for-Ring-Alarm-in-the-United-States\">Ring Protect Pro<\/a>; video storage up to <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360037722872-Video-Storage-Times\">180 days<\/a>; radar-based 3D Motion on <a href=\"https:\/\/ring.com\/products\/battery-doorbell-pro\">Battery Doorbell Pro<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>*Data current as of 2025. Confirm regional availability and requirements on provider sites (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">SimpliSafe<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">Ring<\/a>).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"simplisafe\" title=\"SimpliSafe\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SimpliSafe<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n                                                            \n            <section id=\"simplisafe\"\n         class=\"block b-item-list-card b-item-list-card--\"\n         data-js=\"block-item-list-card\"\n         data-preamp=\"block-item-list-card\">\n\n        <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card\">\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top\">\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"><\/span>\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"> Customizable System<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__bottom\">\n                                                    <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\/value?utm_source=reviews&#038;utm_medium=ppc&#038;utm_campaign=201810&#038;utm_term=r16141&#038;utm=323280-20\"\n                        data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='323280' data-tag-product-name='SimpliSafe' data-tag-brand='SimpliSafe' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category=''\n                        aria-label=\"SimpliSafe button\" \n                        rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" >\n                                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/Simplisafe-Logo4.png\" alt=\"Image for Simplisafe-Logo4\" \/>\n                                            <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right\">\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__top\n                        b-item-list-card__card__right__top--line\">\n                SimpliSafe\n            <\/div>\n\n            <br>\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__topv2\" >\n                SimpliSafe\n            <\/div>\n            <br>\n\n           <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__middle\">\n                                        <a class=\"reviews-btn--primary reviews-btn--large reviews-btn--expand\"\n                    disable-tagular\n                    target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\/value?utm_source=reviews&#038;utm_medium=ppc&#038;utm_campaign=201810&#038;utm_term=r16141&#038;utm=323280-20\" type=\"button\"\n                    aria-label=\"SimpliSafe button\" data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='323280' data-tag-product-name='SimpliSafe' data-tag-brand='SimpliSafe' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='' data-tag-category='' \n                    rel=\"nofollow sponsored\"\n                >\n                View plans<\/a>\n                        <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__bottomv2 h-margin-top-15\">\n                \n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n        \n      <div class=\"grid-x\">\n        <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer cell back_to_top\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' >\n            <p>Return to top\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer-image lazyload\" alt='Return to top arrow' style=\"height: 20px; margin-left: 5px;\"\n                data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/Arrow.svg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/LightGray-placeholder.png\">\n            <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n    \n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/simplisafe-review\/\">Simplisafe<\/a> offers no\u2011contract monitoring with three key options: Standard Monitoring at $19.99\/month, Fast Protect at $29.99\/month (enables agent\u2011assisted visual verification and talk\u2011down via 24\/7 <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">Live Guard Protection<\/a> when you have the Smart Alarm Wireless Indoor Camera), and a Self Monitoring with Camera Recording plan at $9.99\/month for camera\u2011focused users (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">plans<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">camera plan<\/a>). Newer hardware emphasizes prevention, such as the AI\u2011assisted, spotlight\u2011and\u2011siren\u2011equipped <a href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\">Outdoor Camera Pro<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pros<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Fast Protect monitoring with 24\/7 <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">Live Guard<\/a> visual verification\/talk\u2011down<\/li><li>No long\u2011term contracts; month\u2011to\u2011month plans from $9.99 (camera) or $19.99 (pro monitoring)<\/li><li>Proactive deterrence features on cameras (spotlight\/siren\/AI) via <a href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\">Outdoor Camera Pro<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Live Guard requires the Smart Alarm Wireless Indoor Camera and the Fast Protect plan<\/li><li>Advanced verification features cost more (Fast Protect $29.99\/month)<\/li><li>No native Matter camera support (cameras are outside Matter\u2019s scope as of <a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">Matter 1.4<\/a>)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"ring\" title=\"Ring\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ring<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n                                                            \n            <section id=\"ring-security\"\n         class=\"block b-item-list-card b-item-list-card--\"\n         data-js=\"block-item-list-card\"\n         data-preamp=\"block-item-list-card\">\n\n        <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card\">\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left\">\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top\">\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"><\/span>\n                <span class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__top--top\"> DIY or Pro Monitoring<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__left__bottom\">\n                                                    <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B07D7Q6CHB\/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&#038;camp=1789&#038;creative=9325&#038;creativeASIN=B07D7Q6CHB&#038;linkCode=as2&#038;linkId=e3ac90d888851b942b61847720ce171a&#038;tag=315890-20\"\n                        data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='315890' data-tag-product-name='Ring Security' data-tag-brand='Ring' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='month' data-tag-category=''\n                        aria-label=\"Ring button\" \n                        rel=\"nofollow sponsored\" >\n                                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/ringlogo.png\" alt=\"Image for ringlogo\" \/>\n                                            <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right\">\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__top\n                        b-item-list-card__card__right__top--line\">\n                Ring\n            <\/div>\n\n            <br>\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__topv2\" >\n                Ring Security\n            <\/div>\n            <br>\n\n           <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__middle\">\n                                        <a class=\"reviews-btn--primary reviews-btn--large reviews-btn--expand\"\n                    disable-tagular\n                    target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B07D7Q6CHB\/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&#038;camp=1789&#038;creative=9325&#038;creativeASIN=B07D7Q6CHB&#038;linkCode=as2&#038;linkId=e3ac90d888851b942b61847720ce171a&#038;tag=315890-20\" type=\"button\"\n                    aria-label=\"Ring button\" data-tag='product' data-tag-outcome='MONETIZABLE' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-product-id='315890' data-tag-product-name='Ring Security' data-tag-brand='Ring' data-tag-price='0' data-tag-subscription='month' data-tag-category='' \n                    rel=\"nofollow sponsored\"\n                >\n                View plans<\/a>\n                        <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"b-item-list-card__card__right__bottomv2 h-margin-top-15\">\n                \n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n        \n      <div class=\"grid-x\">\n        <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer cell back_to_top\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='LISTCARD' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' >\n            <p>Return to top\n                <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-item-list-card__footer-image lazyload\" alt='Return to top arrow' style=\"height: 20px; margin-left: 5px;\"\n                data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/Arrow.svg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/themes\/reviews-2020\/assets\/images\/LightGray-placeholder.png\">\n            <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n    \n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/ring-alarm-review\/\">Ring<\/a> pairs low\u2011cost video subscriptions with optional alarm monitoring. Video plans include Protect Basic ($4.99\/month per device) and Plus ($10\/month per location), while professional monitoring for Ring Alarm is included only with Ring Protect Pro ($20\/month per location; annual discounts available) (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">plans<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/217109766-Professional-Monitoring-for-Ring-Alarm-in-the-United-States\">monitoring<\/a>). Recent hardware advances include radar\u2011based 3D Motion Detection on the battery\u2011powered <a href=\"https:\/\/ring.com\/products\/battery-doorbell-pro\">Battery Doorbell Pro<\/a> and whole\u2011room coverage from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ring.com\">Pan\u2011Tilt Indoor Cam<\/a>. U.S. accounts can keep videos up to 180 days when enabled (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360037722872-Video-Storage-Times\">policy<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pros<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Low-cost video plans (Basic $4.99\/device; Plus $10\/location) and Pro monitoring for Alarm at $20\/location (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">Ring<\/a>)<\/li><li>Advanced motion tech (radar\u2011based 3D Motion\/Bird\u2019s Eye View) on <a href=\"https:\/\/ring.com\/products\/battery-doorbell-pro\">Battery Doorbell Pro<\/a>; 360\u00b0 coverage with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ring.com\">Pan\u2011Tilt Indoor Cam<\/a><\/li><li>Video storage up to 180 days in the U.S. (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360037722872-Video-Storage-Times\">Ring<\/a>)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Professional monitoring for Ring Alarm requires the Protect Pro plan; Basic\/Plus do not include alarm monitoring (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/217109766-Professional-Monitoring-for-Ring-Alarm-in-the-United-States\">details<\/a>)<\/li><li>Subscription price changes (e.g., 2024 Basic plan increase) drew negative customer feedback (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.theverge.com\">report<\/a>)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"monitoring\" title=\"Monitoring\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Monitoring<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both brands support self\u2011monitoring and professional monitoring. SimpliSafe\u2019s pro tiers are <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">Standard<\/a> ($19.99\/month) and Fast Protect ($29.99\/month, enables 24\/7 <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">Live Guard<\/a> with a compatible camera). Ring Alarm professional monitoring in the U.S. is included only with <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/217109766-Professional-Monitoring-for-Ring-Alarm-in-the-United-States\">Ring Protect Pro<\/a> at $20\/month per location (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">plans<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to avoid pro monitoring, both ecosystems offer camera alerts and cloud video: SimpliSafe\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">Self Monitoring with Camera Recording<\/a> is $9.99\/month, while Ring\u2019s video plans are $4.99\u2013$10\/month with U.S. retention up to <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360037722872-Video-Storage-Times\">180 days<\/a>. Across the DIY market, pro monitoring typically runs about $10\u2013$30\/month, with a median near $20; annual prepay discounts are common (e.g., Ring \u224816.7%) (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivint.com\">market context<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.covesmart.com\">market context<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/ring.com\/protect-plans\">Ring<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Smart home capabilities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both systems work with major voice assistants (Alexa\/Google). Native cross\u2011platform camera control via Matter isn\u2019t available yet: as of <a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">Matter 1.3<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">1.4<\/a>, cameras aren\u2019t in scope, so you\u2019ll manage video features in each brand\u2019s app. For non\u2011camera devices (e.g., lights, switches, some sensors), Matter\/Thread improvements make mixed\u2011ecosystem homes more workable, aided by controllers\/border routers built into many hubs and speakers (see <a href=\"https:\/\/support.google.com\">Google<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/developer.apple.com\">Apple<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartthings.com\/matter\">SmartThings<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"compatibility\" title=\"Compatibility\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compatibility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can expand the limited Ring system with a variety of compatible devices, such as:<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>GE and Leviton smart home dimmers, plugs and wall switches<\/li><li>Dome siren<\/li><li>EcoLink tilt sensors<\/li><li>First Alert\u2019s smoke and carbon monoxide alarm<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As for Simplisafe, the only device compatible with its alarm systems is August Lock to remotely lock and unlock your doors.&nbsp;<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which Security System is Right for Me?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped table-bordered table--bordered-top\"><table class=\"\"><tbody><tr><td>If you\u2026<\/td><td>Then you should go with:<\/td><td>Here\u2019s why:<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Have Google Home devices<\/td><td>Either<\/td><td>Both systems are compatible with Google Assistant; cameras remain app\u2011centric since Matter doesn\u2019t yet cover cameras (<a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">Matter 1.4<\/a>).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Have Amazon home devices<\/td><td>Ring<\/td><td>Ring meshes tightly with Alexa and offers pro monitoring via Protect Pro at $20\/month (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/217109766-Professional-Monitoring-for-Ring-Alarm-in-the-United-States\">details<\/a>).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Want affordable equipment<\/td><td>Ring<\/td><td>Ring\u2019s video plans are low\u2011cost (Basic $4.99\/device; Plus $10\/location) and U.S. video storage can extend to 180 days; pro monitoring is $20\/month. SimpliSafe\u2019s pro plans are $19.99\u2013$29.99\/month, with a $9.99\/month camera plan (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360035016351-Ring-Protect-subscription-plans\">Ring<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360037722872-Video-Storage-Times\">storage<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">SimpliSafe<\/a>).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Want professional installation<\/td><td>Simplisafe<\/td><td>The company provides pro installation from a network of approved installers for <a href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\/forum\/customer-support-forum\/installing-and-using-simplisafe\/simplisafe-partner-for-instal\">$79<\/a>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"comparison\" title=\"Comparison\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to compare home security companies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Installation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most wireless systems are DIY\u2011friendly, but check for pro install options and any local alarm permit rules for monitored alarms. Also note evolving security labeling: the FCC\u2019s voluntary U.S. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fcc.gov\">Cyber Trust Mark<\/a> program is launching in 2025 to highlight stronger IoT security, and the U.K.\u2019s PSTI rules (in force April 2024) mandate minimum security baselines like no default passwords and a published vulnerability policy (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\">guidance<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compatibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Plan for today\u2019s mixed ecosystems. Matter over IP and Thread improved cross\u2011platform control for many devices in 2024 releases (<a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">Matter 1.3<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\">1.4<\/a>), and major platforms act as controllers\/border routers (<a href=\"https:\/\/support.google.com\">Google<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/developer.apple.com\">Apple<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartthings.com\/matter\">SmartThings<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.home-assistant.io\/integrations\/matter\/\">Home Assistant<\/a>). Cameras aren\u2019t yet standardized in Matter, so Ring and SimpliSafe camera features remain in their own apps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Price<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Total cost includes hardware plus ongoing service. DIY professional monitoring commonly ranges $10\u2013$30\/month (median \u2248$20), with annual prepay discounts at some providers (Ring \u224816.7%) (<a href=\"https:\/\/ring.com\/protect-plans\">Ring<\/a>). SimpliSafe lists flat monthly rates without annual-contract discounts (<a href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\/monitoring\">SimpliSafe<\/a>). Costs vary by features such as cellular backup, video verification, and cloud recording (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.consumerreports.org\">Consumer Reports<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/goabode.com\/plans\">abode<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.covesmart.com\">Cove<\/a>). Equipment is sold separately; verify taxes\/fees and any city permit requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"bottom-line\" title=\"The Bottom Line\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The bottom line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose Ring if you want the broadest, low\u2011cost camera ecosystem and precise motion sensing (radar\u2011based 3D Motion\/Bird\u2019s Eye View) with optional pro monitoring via Protect Pro ($20\/month). Choose SimpliSafe if you prefer streamlined professional monitoring and advanced response options like 24\/7 agent\u2011assisted visual verification\/talk\u2011down with Fast Protect ($29.99\/month) (<a href=\"https:\/\/ring.com\/products\/battery-doorbell-pro\">Ring<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/support.ring.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/217109766-Professional-Monitoring-for-Ring-Alarm-in-the-United-States\">monitoring<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">SimpliSafe<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\">Live Guard<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>On satisfaction, both remain well\u2011regarded DIY options in expert testing and benchmark studies, but price and policy changes can shift sentiment quickly. Ring\u2019s 2024 Basic plan price increase drew notable pushback (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.theverge.com\">coverage<\/a>). App ratings for both brands generally hover near the four\u2011star range on Android, but recent reviews (last 30\u201390 days) are the best indicator of current stability\u2014scan them before you buy (<a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.simplisafe.mobile\">SimpliSafe app<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.ringapp\">Ring app<\/a>; see also <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\">Wirecutter<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pcmag.com\/reviews\/simplisafe-home-security-system\">PCMag SimpliSafe<\/a>\/<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pcmag.com\">PCMag Ring<\/a> for ongoing expert tests).<\/p>\n\n\n  <style>\n    .myFinance-widget {\n    min-height: 670px;\n    }\n  <\/style>\n  <div class=\"myFinance-widget\" data-widget-id=\"7c9fe833-dde7-4eb5-b71f-d741b8cccd66\" data-campaign=\"reviews-non-monitored-security\"><\/div>\n\n<script async=\"\" type=\"text\/javascript\" id=\"myFinance-widget-script\">\n  !function () {function e() {var s = \"myFinance-widget-ad-script\";if (!document.getElementById(s)) {var e = document.createElement(\"script\"), n = document.getElementById(\"myFinance-widget-script\"), a = t + \"widget\/myFinance.js\";e.id = s, e.type = \"text\/javascript\", e.async = !0, e.src = a, n.parentNode.insertBefore(e, n);}var c = \"myFinance-widget-css\";if (!document.getElementById(c)) {var d = document.getElementsByTagName(\"head\")[0], i = document.createElement(\"link\");i.id = c, i.rel = \"stylesheet\", i.type = \"text\/css\", i.href = t + \"widget\/myFinance.css\", i.media = \"all\", d.appendChild(i)}}var t = \"https:\/\/static.myfinance.com\/\";document.attachEvent ? document.attachEvent(\"onreadystatechange\", function () {\"complete\" === document.readyState && e()}) : document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", e, !1)}();\n<\/script>\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"questions\" title=\"FAQ\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Home Security FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5f071ee5fd8ef\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">How do you prevent false alarms?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>Make sure you install sensors properly. Door and window sensor magnets should be less than two inches apart. And if you have pets in the home, choose pet-friendly sensors or hang your motion sensors higher in the room.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5f071efafd8f0\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">Do I need professional monitoring?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>Professional monitoring is good to have if you travel often and would like the peace of mind of knowing a qualified professional is watching over your home. If the service detects anything unusual, they could send help quickly.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5f071f1afd8f1\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">Can I take my home security system when I move?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>Wireless home security systems are easy to install \u2014 and just as simple to take down and move. You can take yours with you and in many cases, transfer the home monitoring service to your new address at no additional charge.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5f071f2cfd8f2\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">How secure is my security system?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>Your home security system is only as secure as your habits. It\u2019s important you and all household members are consistent about activating the security system each time you leave home. Take alarm triggers and alerts seriously to make sure your home is safe.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5f071f3cfd8f3\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">Why is system compatibility important?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>Most home security systems come with a limited amount of equipment. Your needs over time may change. You may move and require more sensors or additional equipment. A system that\u2019s compatible with other devices and companies can prolong its usefulness in the future.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_5f071f4ffd8f4\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">How are wireless home security systems powered?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>Your wireless security system\u2019s devices use batteries. The equipment\u2019s battery life varies, but most sensors and items\u2019 batteries last <a href=\"https:\/\/support.simplisafe.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/360023810112-How-long-do-the-batteries-last-\">three to five years<\/a>. The keypad may have the shortest battery life in your system but the batteries should last roughly one year.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re interested in protecting your home with a wireless security system, Ring and Simplisafe are two options worth comparing. Both are DIY-friendly with month-to-month service: SimpliSafe\u2019s professional monitoring starts at $19.99\/month (Standard) with an advanced Fast Protect tier at $29.99\/month, while Ring Alarm\u2019s professional monitoring is available with Ring Protect Pro at $20\/month; each [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":345,"featured_media":349557,"parent":2228,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-templates\/template-reviews.php","meta":[],"categories":[1286],"tags":[],"post_author":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>SimpliSafe vs. Ring | Reviews.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"If you\u2019re interested in protecting your home with a wireless security system, Ring and Simplisafe are two options worth comparing.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, 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