Alder and SimpliSafe both offer DIY home security that makes set-up and monitoring as easy as 1-2-3. Both providers offer a variety of equipment, including cameras, sensors and easy-to-use touchscreen panels to control your home from one hub. SimpliSafe and Alder offer systems without long contracts or professional installation costs. But, they have distinct differences. Check out our comparison between the two to pick the best provider for you.
Compare Alder vs. SimpliSafe
Alder prides itself on protecting your home in more ways than one. They offer a mix of solutions nationwide including home security, automation and environmental safety - flood and fire. The provider also offers medical safety solutions with wearable medical alerts for the safety of your loved ones. SimpliSafe security systems are designed to protect your home from fire, burglars and water leaks that could lead to costly repairs. Their DIY equipment can be set up in minutes and monitored by professionals 24/7 for peace of mind. SimpliSafe is known for smash-proof systems that still alert police if intruders try to break it.
Price
Winner: SimpliSafeAlder’s pricing is not shared online, and you must call for a quote. SimpliSafe makes it easy to build and buy your system online with prices for each piece of equipment, plans and add-ons. As you customize your system online, you’ll see a breakdown of each item and any discounts applied. With SimpliSafe’s transparency, they are the winner of our pricing category.
Installation
Winner: SimpliSafeBoth Alder and SimpliSafe offer DIY installation to easily set up equipment when and how you want. Alder’s installation takes less than 10 minutes. SimpliSafe has easy ‘peel and stick’ equipment that can also be installed in minutes. Alder doesn’t mention professional installation availability online, but you can call for help. SimpliSafe offers professional installation for $79. Although it comes with a price, SimpliSafe gives both options to choose from.
Equipment
Winner: SimpliSafeAlder offers basic equipment including a touchscreen panel, sensors and cameras. They also offer smoke detectors, water leak sensors and other basic life safety equipment. SimpliSafe also offers basic equipment, but their system is known for being discrete with smaller-than-average, but powerful sensors and a sleek, smash proof control panel that still alerts responders if it’s damaged. Their next-level equipment capabilities make them a clear winner in this category.
Home Automation
Winner: SimpliSafeMost DIY providers offer smart home integration, but Alder doesn’t. You can control your system using Alder’s app, but smart home connectivity isn’t available. SimpliSafe doesn’t offer smart home devices but offers an upgraded monitoring plan for smart home features. You can also control your system and smart home devices using SimpliSafe’s app. We believe that since SimpliSafe gives more smart home security capabilities, they win this category.
Contract
Tie: Alder and SimpliSafeAlder and SimpliSafe don’t require long contract commitments. Services such as professional monitoring are charged monthly and can be canceled anytime. Monthly plans for monitoring start at $14.99/mo. but can cost up to $35.10/mo. for additional features. It’s best to call to speak to an expert for Alder’s pricing - it may vary based on your security needs.
Warranties & Guarantees
Tie: Alder and SimpliSafeAlder offers a limited lifetime warranty. If your equipment stops working, they’ll cover the cost. They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with your service. On the other hand, SimpliSafe offers a 60-day money-back guarantee on products and services. They also offer a three-year warranty from the date of purchase for any system defects. Since SimpliSafe offers a longer money-back guarantee, but Alder offers a lifetime warranty this category is a tie.
Differences: Alder vs. SimpliSafe
Winner  SimpliSafe Security | ||
|---|---|---|
Monitoring starts at | N/A | $14.99/mo. |
Contract length | No contract | No contract |
Trial period/ refunds | 30 days | 30 days |
Installation | DIY | DIY or Professional |
Guarantees or Refunds | 30-day money-back guarantee | 60-day money-back guarantee |
BBB rating | B- | A+ |
Standout Features | 10 | 8 |
Equipment | 10 | 8 |
Installation | 8 | 8 |
Trial Period | 10 | 8 |
Frequently Asked Questions about Alder and SimpliSafe
No, neither provider requires a contract for home security or professional monitoring.
Yes, both providers offer self-monitoring. Monthly professional monitoring plans are available at an additional cost.
Yes, both providers offer DIY home security equipment that’s easy to install without wires or drilling. And, when you move, the equipment is easy to pack up and reinstall at your new home.
SimpliSafe offers a hassle-free professional installation for $79. Alder does not offer professional installation at this time.