SimpliSafe vs. Honeywell

Compare SimpliSafe vs. Honeywell

• Price

  Winner: SimpliSafe

  SimpliSafe systems represent significant cost savings compared to similar Honeywell security systems. For example, Honeywell's Super Smart Home Security Bundle retails at $699, and SimpliSafe's comparable system (The Haven) retails for $489. SimpliSafe also offers a greater variety of packages, the ability to build a custom system for your exact needs and budget, and a chance to buy refurbished equipment at a reduced cost.

• Installation

  Tie: SimpliSafe and Honeywell

  Both Honeywell and SimpliSafe's home security systems are designed for simple DIY installation, but both offer an option for professional installation. SimpliSafe makes it easy to purchase professional installation at checkout for a flat fee of $79 due at the appointment. On the other hand, Honeywell shows a list of providers you'll need to contact on your own. There are pros and cons to each method of hiring a pro, so we deem this category a tie.

• Equipment

  Winner: SimpliSafe

  Honeywell and SimpliSafe both provide one security camera, one key fob, optional water leak and freeze detection, and at least two access/entry sensors. In addition, Honeywell provides a smart thermostat and the ability to sync with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant in its Super Smart Home Security Bundle. But SimpliSafe's Haven package includes a total of four entry sensors plus two additional motion sensors, a siren, a panic button, a keypad, a base monitoring station, and a smoke detector, making it the home-run winner of this category.

• Security Cameras

  Winner: Honeywell

  For those who want video monitoring capabilities above all else, Honeywell wins. Both SimpliSafe and Honeywell include security cameras in their packages that sync to an app, allowing you to use remote video monitoring to protect your home. But while SimpliSafe also offers just one style of camera, Honeywell has five to choose from: its "base station" smart camera, two wifi indoor cameras, a wired or wireless outdoor IP camera, and a Wi-Fi outdoor camera. 

• Home Automation

  Winner: Honeywell

  Both Honeywell and SimpliSafe have mobile apps that allow you to monitor your security cameras and change some settings remotely. However, Honeywell goes a step further by including smart home integration for Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT with each of its Smart Home bundles. You can get Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Watch, and August syncing for SimpliSafe only by paying for the $25 per month Interactive professional monitoring package. 

• Professional Monitoring

  Winner: SimpliSafe

  For either $14.99/mo. (Standard) or $24.99/mo. (Interactive) and no contract, you can enjoy professional monitoring services with your SimpliSafe devices. With 24/7/365 monitoring, professionals evaluate and confirm the alarms. If needed, they'll also alert the authorities, whether the situation requires police or firefighters. The Interactive plan also unlocks additional text message alerts and home automation syncing. Honeywell does not offer professional monitoring services.