Let’s dig into the details and find out which of these two DIY security systems is best for you. But if you’re looking for home automation support, Link’s plans may be worth the extra cost. Video monitoring is a service where your home security company watches all your video footage and contacts the police, fire department, or an ambulance for you—even if your alarm didn’t go off. But you’ll be doing all the monitoring yourself—no monitoring center will call you if you’re away and your alarm goes off. Instead, it’s up to you to notice that something’s not right at home. If professional monitoring is what you’re looking for, both SimpliSafe’s Standard and Interactive plans offer that. So if an alarm trips at home, you’ll get a call right away—even if you’re still in the driveway. (Speaking from experience.) Video recordings let you collect evidence of a break-in or other events, which can be helpful to share with the authorities or your insurance company if you have to file a claim. And speaking of the authorities, SimpliSafe’s Interactive plan includes video verification. This means the monitoring center can access 30 seconds of live camera footage to double-check that it’s not a false alarm before they alert the emergency services. Here’s a summary of all the perks that come with each SimpliSafe monitoring plan: We should note, though, that Link’s equipment is made by Alarm.com, while SimpliSafe makes its own equipment. That’s not to say one is better than the other, but it does result in more expensive equipment if you go with Link Interactive. SimpliSafe’s equipment is pretty pared down. You’ve got your base station and keypad, then the standard set of sensors and cameras. There’s also a handful of add-on equipment, like a carbon monoxide detector, flood sensor, a smart lock, and doorbell camera, which let you keep tabs on other potential home hazards. You may be wondering if the high cost of the Premium Indoor Camera is worth it—the answer is yes, if you’re looking for Z-Wave home automation features and a larger field of view. The Premium Indoor Camera lets you use the Z-wave automation language to trigger events—like turning on a light when motion is detected, which could deter a potential intruder. If you don’t need any fancy features, the regular Indoor Camera still helps you keep tabs on activity at home, like making sure your kiddo got home safe or your dog isn’t destroying the couch. The biggest downside is that the camera needs to be plugged in, so you’ll potentially need to drill holes for its cord. On top of indoor and outdoor cameras, Link also offers three different Wi-Fi video doorbells so you can keep an eye out for important deliveries. The $200 doorbell cam offers 4K resolution, but if you’ve got a large porch, you may want to go for the $167 doorbell cam with the largest field of view. Its Outdoor Camera is a step above Link’s outdoor camera thanks to its wireless capabilities. No need to drill holes to hide your power cord here—and if you’re worried about batteries running out, SimpliSafe also offers a solar panel made just for the camera. If you’re really looking for a deal, SimpliSafe also sells refurbished equipment at 20 to 30% off, and you keep the same warranty you’d get if you bought it new. So if you want to add smart plugs, light bulbs, or thermostats to your home security system, Link may be the better fit. We’ve heard lots of great feedback from customers about Link Interactive. Some even said that Link’s technicians helped them install smart home devices that didn’t come with their Link Interactive system. One item we noted about Link, though, was that it’s website is a little difficult to navigate—and you’ll need to provide personal info in order to get a quote for your new security system. SimpliSafe also has a great reputation, and we noted how easy it was for our parents to use. The monitoring representatives are professional, helpful, and kind when they call, and the SimpliSafe site is easier to get around on than Link’s.
Link Interactive customer service number: 1-877-826-5446 SimpliSafe customer service number: 1-888-910-1215
One more thing to note is that Link Interactive requires you to sign a one- to three-year contract, while SimpliSafe doesn’t require a contract at all. And if you suspect you may need to end your Link Interactive contract early, you’ll have to pay 75% of your remaining contract cost. Link is best for folks who own a large home or want to customize their security system with home automation and lots of different types of sensors. SimpliSafe is great for anyone on a tight budget who’s still looking for a quality home security setup.
Prices and monitoring plans: SimpliSafe. You’ll find the best prices for monitoring plans and equipment with SimpliSafe. Even its most expensive monitoring plan costs less than Link Interactive’s cheapest plan, and SimpliSafe doesn’t require a contract like Link does. Security equipment: Link Interactive. You’ll get way more options when it comes to equipment with Link Interactive. And though it’s more expensive than SimpliSafe, you’ll find a sensor or device for pretty much anything you’d need to monitor. Cameras: Both Link Interactive and SimpliSafe offer a full range of cameras, from indoor to outdoor to doorbell cams. But Link has more options, while SimpliSafe’s cost less. Smart home integrations: Link Interactive. Both security systems work with Alexa and Google Assistant, but only Link lets you program smart home automations using Z-wave technology. Customer service: Both companies are known for friendly reps and helpful service, though we prefer the simplicity of SimpliSafe’s online ordering process over Link’s request-a-quote system.
Price, and the value of what you get Equipment features, quality, and choices Cameras, including price and quality Home automation support Customer service and contract requirements
We conducted hands-on testing for the SimpliSafe security system, including living with it for a year. Our research for Link Interactive involved online research of its monitoring plans and prices, plus research of its Alarm.com equipment. SimpliSafe also offers a panic button for $19.99.
