Ring vs. SimpliSafe Home Security: Features, Pricing

Ring and SimpliSafe are two of our top picks for home security providers. Both companies offer alarm systems, cameras, video doorbells and other home security accessories with rich features at reasonable prices, but SimpliSafe ranks slightly ahead of Ring for its AI detection at no added cost and higher privacy ratings.

Both companies offer both self- and pro-monitoring subscription options and charge month-to-month without locking users into a contract. Both alarm systems can be DIY-installed, though you can pay an added fee to have either system professionally installed. Both providers are also compatible with Alexa and Google.

However, Ring offers self- and pro-monitoring at a lower cost than SimpliSafe, which may make it a better choice for some customers.

Why SimpliSafe is a better choice

Ring and SimpliSafe both offer advanced features and smart home integration, but SimpliSafe’s AI human detection is built-in, while Ring’s costs extra. SimpliSafe also has a cleaner security record.

SimpliSafe’s cameras have a built-in motion sensor that can differentiate between people and other movements, such as cars and pets, and alert you accordingly. You can adjust your device’s motion sensitivity and alarm triggers.

Ring also offers smart detection for its devices, including person and package alerts, but those alerts require a monthly Ring Protect subscription starting at $4.99 per month.

We couldn’t find any public record of privacy breaches at SimpliSafe, but in a proposed order in 2023, the Federal Trade Commission alleged that Ring exposed customers’ personal information and home monitoring to hackers.

SimpliSafe also rates 3.5 stars out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, a consumer review website, while Ring has 1.2 stars out of 5 stars.

Why you might want to use Ring instead

Ring is still a great option, especially for people who want lower monthly self- and pro-monitoring costs.

SimpliSafe’s equipment and monthly professional monitoring fees are slightly more expensive than Ring’s.

• SimpliSafe’s base kit, at $249.96 (sometimes discounted), includes one base station, one keypad, one entry sensor and one motion sensor. Sometimes, if there’s a promotion, you can get one free Smart Alarm wireless indoor security camera and a free trial of professional monitoring.

• Ring’s base kit, at $199.99, includes an Alarm Base Station, keypad, door/window contact sensor, motion detector, Alarm Range Extender and a free 30-day trial of Ring Protect professional monitoring.

• SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring costs $29.99 per month, while Ring’s costs $20 per month. 

• SimpliSafe’s self-monitoring plan costs $9.99 per month, while Ring’s costs $3.99 per month for similar features.

When factoring in SimpliSafe’s discounts, the equipment may cost more with Ring, but monthly monitoring costs are higher with SimpliSafe.

Ring and SimpliSafe alternatives

For homeowners and renters who want a more white-glove experience, a professionally installed and monitored system, such as one from ADT or Vivint, might be a better fit.

Arlo and Abode, two of our other top-reviewed home security providers, are also good options.