SimpliSafe vs Ring Alarm: Complete Home Security Comparison
SimpliSafe and Ring Alarm are the two most popular DIY home security systems. Both offer professional monitoring
without long contracts. Here’s how they compare.
For security cameras, see our guide to Best No-Subscription Security
Cameras.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | SimpliSafe | Ring Alarm |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Monitoring | $18-28 | $10-20 |
| Self-Monitoring | Free (basic) | Free (basic) |
| Starter Kit Price | $200-400 | $200-400 |
| Camera Integration | SimpliSafe cameras only | Ring cameras (extensive) |
| Smart Home | Limited | Full Alexa |
| Contract | No contract | No contract |
Monitoring Plans
| Plan | SimpliSafe | Ring Alarm |
|---|---|---|
| Self-monitoring | Free | Free |
| Basic Professional | $18/mo | $10/mo (Ring Protect Plus) |
| Premium Professional | $28/mo | $20/mo (Ring Protect Pro) |
Ring is cheaper for monitoring—$10/month for basic professional monitoring vs SimpliSafe’s
$18/month.
SimpliSafe: Independent and Comprehensive
SimpliSafe is a dedicated security company. Their system works standalone—no Amazon, no Google, just security.
What’s Included:
- Base station with cellular backup
- Keypad
- Entry sensors
- Motion detector
- Optional: cameras, smoke detectors, water sensors
SimpliSafe Pros
- Cellular backup (works without internet)
- No contract, cancel anytime
- Independent company (privacy-focused)
- 24/7 professional monitoring
SimpliSafe Cons
- More expensive monitoring ($18-28/mo)
- Limited smart home integration
- Cameras are mediocre
- No Alexa/Google voice control
Ring Alarm: Amazon Ecosystem Integration
Ring Alarm is deeply integrated with Amazon Alexa. If you have Echo devices, Ring cameras, or Ring doorbells, the
Alarm ties everything together.
What’s Included:
- Base station
- Keypad
- Entry sensors
- Motion detector
- Range extender
Ring Alarm Pros
- Cheaper monitoring ($10-20/mo)
- Full Alexa integration
- Works with Ring cameras (huge ecosystem)
- Voice control (“Alexa, arm the alarm”)
Ring Alarm Cons
- Amazon ownership (privacy concerns)
- Ring cameras require subscription
- Internet-dependent (cellular backup extra)
- Locked into Amazon ecosystem
Feature Comparison
| Feature | SimpliSafe | Ring Alarm |
|---|---|---|
| Cellular Backup | Included | Extra ($20/mo plan) |
| Battery Backup | 24 hours | 24 hours |
| Professional Monitoring | $18-28/mo | $10-20/mo |
| Smoke/CO Monitoring | ✅ | ✅ |
| Alexa Integration | ❌ | ✅ Full |
| Camera Selection | Limited | Extensive |
Which Should You Choose?
| Your Priority | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Lowest monitoring cost | Ring Alarm |
| Alexa/Amazon ecosystem | Ring Alarm |
| Privacy from big tech | SimpliSafe |
| Cellular backup included | SimpliSafe |
| Best camera integration | Ring Alarm |
| Standalone security focus | SimpliSafe |
Camera Integration Note
Ring Alarm works seamlessly with Ring cameras—but Ring cameras require subscription ($4-10/mo) for recording.
Alternative: Use Ring Alarm for security monitoring + Eufy/Reolink cameras (no subscription) for
video. They won’t integrate, but you’ll save on camera fees.
Verdict
Choose SimpliSafe if: You want a dedicated security system from a security company. No smart home
needed; privacy is a priority. Willing to pay more for included cellular backup.
Choose Ring Alarm if: You’re in the Amazon/Alexa ecosystem. Want cheaper monitoring and extensive
camera options. Already have Ring cameras or doorbell.
For no-subscription cameras to pair with either system, see: Best
No-Subscription Security Cameras.