SimpliSafe vs. Nest: Which Is Best in Home Security?

SimpliSafe vs. Nest

• Price

  Winner: SimpliSafe

  Both providers let you choose the equipment you need, so you can buy what fits within your budget and add more later. We compared some of the prices of the most popular products, including the camera, video doorbell and security sensors that are easy add ons. Comparatively, SimpliSafe’s cameras, video doorbell, and sensors are cheaper than Nest’s. For example, SimpliSafe’s doorbell costs $169, while Nest’s costs $249. Keep in mind that SimpliSafe requires a base station and keypad if you need a security system, which costs $134 total. We’d recommend SimpliSafe to give you more equipment for your money and cheaper add-ons over time when it comes to price.

• Smart home automation

  Tie: SimpliSafe and Nest

  Both providers have limited smart home control. Nest products only work with Google Assistant and are easy to control using the Nest app. SimpliSafe works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to arm and disarm your system. SimpliSafe also works with August smart locks using the SimpliSafe mobile app. Even though both providers offer smart home features, SimpliSafe gives you more features, despite only working with one voice assistant. You’ll be able to see live footage, control your devices using voice commands, schedule automated scenes, and more. Nest also offers a wide range of smart home devices to help you create a smart home inside and out.

  If you’re looking for a full home security system with smart controls, we recommend SimpliSafe. But if you’re interested in creating a smart home, we recommend Nest for its variety of smart devices. It all boils down to the smart home devices and features you use most.

• Installation

  Tie: SimpliSafe and Nest

  SimpliSafe and Nest offer professional installation to give you a hassle-free setup. Both providers also make DIY installation easy using your smartphone, online tutorials, and customer support. Nest’s professional installation costs start at $100. Total cost depends on which devices are being installed and how many. SimpliSafe’s professional installation starts at $79. Even though SimpliSafe is cheaper, remember that DIY installation is free and easy with both providers.

• Monitoring

  Winner: SimpliSafe

  SimpliSafe and Nest offer DIY monitoring for free. You’ll still get instant alerts if sensors or cameras are triggered, but you’ll need to alert authorities yourself for help. SimpliSafe offers month-to-month professional monitoring starting at $15 per month. Since Nest no longer offers home security solutions, professional monitoring is available using ADT or Brinks. Both providers will require a service contract, and costs will vary. Even though both offer professional and DIY monitoring, we recommend SimpliSafe for its contract-free professional monitoring and flexibility.

• Security Cameras

  Winner: Nest

  If you’re shopping for security based on the best security cameras, we’d recommend Nest. Nest offers two indoor and two outdoor cameras with top-of-the-line smart features, including you-way audio. Or you can upgrade to Nest’s IQ Indoor or Outdoor camera for advanced camera features like 12x digital zoom and Daytime HDR. Nest Aware subscription plans are available for more features, including Supersight, Familiar Face Alerts, and Person Alerts. Nest cameras are also easy to set up with different mounting options. Cameras start at $130 — a little more expensive than the $99 SimpliCam, but the features more than make up for the added cost.

  Even though we recommend Nest, the SimpliCam comes with features including smart motion detection and two-way audio. It’s a great camera but lacks advanced features for those with smart surveillance in mind.

• Trial Period

  Winner: SimpliSafe

  Trial periods help you get a sense of what it’s like to live with your new system. You can set up and use the equipment risk-free for a certain time. If you’re unhappy, you can return it for a refund. Nest offers a 15-day trial period, while SimpliSafe offers a 60-day money-back guarantee. We’d recommend SimpliSafe to give you more time with the system and services. During this time, you can try SimpliSafe’s monitoring for the full experience.