Nest IQ Indoor Camera vs. SimpliSafe SimpliCam

Indoor camera costs vary based on features and camera specifications. The Simplicam is one of the more affordable camera options - only costing $99. On the other hand, the Nest IQ Indoor Cam costs twice as much - at a retail price of $299. You should also factor in video storage costs. With Nest, you can get cloud storage for as low as $5/mo. or $50/yr. For continuous recording with Nest, you'll have to pay $12/mo. or $120/yr. SimpliSafe’s video storage costs $24/99/mo. for unlimited recording, 24/7 professional monitoring and mobile app control. Storage plans aren’t required for either camera, but if you opt for SimpliSafe you’ll be paying more in the long run.

The Nest IQ Indoor Cam wins this category by a landslide with a few built-in features including a Google Assistant, two-way audio and Person Alerts to detect a person from a thing. The Simplicam includes smart motion detection to detect the heat of a person - similar to Nest’s camera. Simplicam doesn’t have as many. Both cameras come with an easy-to-use app, but if you’re looking for more out of your indoor camera Nest wins this round.

Both camera providers have mobile apps that show live video when you’re on the go. With SimpliSafe, you’ll be able to record and playback clips anytime using your smartphone. You can also download and share clips. But Nest offers a bit more for remote camera control. You’ll be able to see live and recorded footage, and see photos of activity from the previous three hours anytime. You’ll also be able to use the two-way talk feature to talk to guests inside your home using your smartphone. Since Nest offers more for their remote camera control they’re the winners of this round.

Most home security equipment comes with a warranty to cover any defects or issues you may face. Nest has a two-year warranty to cover your Nest IQ Indoor Cam. If your camera has any defects within this time, Nest will repair or replace your camera or its parts. The warranty doesn’t cover a few instances including weathering, modifications made to your camera or improper installation. SimpliSafe has a three-year warranty that covers defects by offering repairs or replacements. Like Nest, the warranty doesn’t cover a few issues including installation, natural disasters or alterations. Since SimpliSafe has a longer warranty for their camera, they win this round.

Both the Nest IQ Indoor Cam and Simplicam are easy to install. They’re both as easy as opening the box, plugging the camera into a wall outlet and connecting to the mobile app to finish the setup. Keep in mind that both cameras require Wi-Fi for use. We like that SimpliSafe and Nest offer professional installation from a third-party if you’d like to install additional equipment with your camera. Since both make installation fast and easy this round is a tie.

Today’s most popular cameras work with your favorite smart home brands to wirelessly connect with your other equipment. Currently, SimpliSafe works with Amazon Alexa, August Smart Locks and Nest. Unfortunately, these brands don’t work with the Simplicam. Nest’s IQ Indoor Cam has a built-in Google Assistant making them the clear winner of this round. The Google Assistant can handle voice commands for your home and camera without requiring additional equipment.