Alder’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.

Both 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.

Alder 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.

Most 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.

Alder 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.

Alder 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.