If you’ve narrowed your home security choices down to SimpliSafe or Frontpoint, here’s what you should know. Both providers offer 24/7 monitoring, home automation features, and do-it-yourself (DIY) installation, with a few key differences that we’ve outlined below.
Summary: SimpliSafe vs. Frontpoint
More affordable, more flexible contract | ||
---|---|---|
Monthly monitoring starting price | $14.99/mo. | $44.99/mo. |
Contract length | Month-to-month | Month-to-month |
Trial period/refunds | 60 days | 30 days |
BBB rating | A+ | A+ |
Frequently Asked Questions about SimpliSafe and Frontpoint
Do either SimpliSafe or Frontpoint services require a long-term contract?
Neither SimpliSafe nor Frontpoint require a long-term contract for new customers. With either provider, simply purchase your equipment and pay a month-to-month monitoring subscription that you can cancel at anytime. Note that Frontpoint recently abandoned its contract requirement, so current customers may still be bound to a contract.
What types of packages do SimpliSafe and Frontpoint provide?
SimpliSafe offers a number of packages to choose from, including the basic Foundation Package, Essentials Package, Haven Package and the Hearth Package. The basic package starts with the base station, keypad, an entry sensor and a motion sensor.
Frontpoint has five packages that you can choose from, which offer an assortment of intrusion protection, environmental monitoring and camera options. The basic package includes a hub and keypad, two door/window sensors, one motion sensor and signage.
What professional monitoring options do SimpliSafe and Frontpoint have?
SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring costs between $14.99-$24.99/mo. You can also opt to monitor the system yourself, though your ability to do so may be limited because some mobile app features are restricted to professional monitoring subscribers. Frontpoint requires professional monitoring which starts at $44.99/mo. and increases to $49.99/mo. for video surveillance features.
Do either SimpliSafe or Frontpoint offer professional installation?
SimpliSafe and Frontpoint systems are both do-it-yourself home security systems, meaning that the equipment is designed for easy do-it-yourself (DIY) installation. SimpliSafe offers optional professional installation starting at $79, but that’s not an option with Frontpoint.
Due to wireless components and tool-free mounting options, we don’t anticipate that a person with average technology know-how should have much trouble accomplishing a basic installation. There are also online resources and customer helplines standing by to assist.