While Xfinity’s home security systems offer more features, SimpliSafe offers better prices and the option to self-monitor. Both providers require you to pay for equipment, but only Xfinity provides a monthly financing option and lets you combine its equipment with your existing equipment. SimpliSafe’s equipment packages start at $183 and Xfinity’s start at $360. Monitoring is optional with SimpliSafe, starting at $14.99 per month. The Xfinity Home app comes included in both of Xfinity’s packages but requires $29.95 per month ($39.95 after the first year) to get remote access via the mobile app.

Each Xfinity equipment package features a touchscreen control panel, whereas SimpliSafe only makes keypads. Both companies make HD security cameras with night vision, but only SimpliSafe’s SimpliCam has heat and motion sensors designed to reduce false alarms. They each offer equipment for home environmental monitoring and outdoor surveillance, but only Xfinity makes smart home devices.

Xfinity and SimpliSafe have secure mobile apps that let you view the live video feed your camera is capturing. Both apps give you remote access to your security system while away, but Xfinity’s Home app can do a lot more. It connects with smart home devices so that you can control your home’s temperature, locks and lighting from afar. You can also customize mobile alerts and set up home automation rules for your security system, Xfinity’s smart devices and compatible smart devices from other brands.

SimpliSafe offers a 60-day money-back guarantee with a three-year limited warranty on the equipment you purchase. Xfinity gives you a 30-day money-back guarantee, but you can only get refunded for up to $500 of your upfront payment for equipment. Unfortunately, Xfinity’s equipment comes with no more than a 30-day warranty. 

You can use Amazon Alexa, Apple Watch or Google Assistant to verbally command your SimpliSafe system and set up automation rules for it. SimpliSafe also works with August Smart Locks and Google Nest. Xfinity, on the other hand, lets you set up automation rules for your entire home. For example, you can create a rule for the lights to turn on when the front door opens. Whereas SimpliSafe only pairs with the SimpliSafe smart lock, Xfinity is compatible with smart home devices from 12 different brands, so the possibilities for home automation are endless. 

Both Xfinity and SimpliSafe have in-house technicians they send to their customer’s homes for in-person service. SimpliSafe gives you the option for DIY or professional installation, whereas Xfinity requires a professional install. Beyond installation, Xfinity’s in-person service also includes customized system recommendations, a home assessment, and a one-on-one tutorial. Xfinity’s home consultants help you find the most cost-effective way to combine your existing equipment with new technology from Xfinity to get your security system up and running.