Can Burglars Disable SimpliSafe? What Really Happens During a Break-In
Wondering if burglars can disarm SimpliSafe? Here’s what really happens when someone tries to break in, how the system responds, and how to boost your home's protection.
SimpliSafe Security – What You Need to Know in 2025
If you’ve Googled "home alarm" lately, SimpliSafe probably popped up first. It’s the DIY kit that promises easy install, 24/7 monitoring, and no contracts. But does it live up to the hype, and where does it fall short? This guide breaks down the core features, real‑world costs, and a few competitors that might give you more bang for your buck.
Key Features and How It Works
SimpliSafe’s system is built around four simple ideas: wireless sensors, plug‑in base stations, optional professional monitoring, and a mobile app. All sensors run on batteries that last up to five years, so you never have to wrestle with new wiring. The base station connects to your home Wi‑Fi and talks to the SimpliSafe cloud, which alerts you via push notifications, text, or email.
Installation is literally a matter of mounting the sensors with the included brackets and snapping them into the base. No drilling, no permits. The app walks you through each step, confirming signal strength and battery health. If the power goes out, the base has a built‑in battery that keeps the system alive for about 24 hours, and a cellular backup (available on the higher‑tier plans) kicks in if your internet drops.
Monitoring comes in three flavors: DIY only (free), standard monitoring (£14.99 / month), and premium monitoring (£24.99 / month). The standard plan adds police dispatch, while premium adds fire department alerts and a 24/7 video‑verified response team. You can cancel anytime – no long‑term contract, which is a relief for renters or anyone who hates being locked in.
Comparing SimpliSafe to Other Systems
So, is SimpliSafe the best DIY alarm? It’s solid, but a few rivals edge it out in specific areas. ADT, for example, still offers professional install and a wider range of home‑automation integrations, though it usually requires a contract and higher monthly fees. On the other hand, Ring Alarm provides a similar plug‑and‑play experience with a lower entry price, but its monitoring options are more limited and its ecosystem leans heavily on Amazon services.
If you’re after video integration, SimpleHome’s indoor cameras work seamlessly with the alarm, but the picture quality and storage options lag behind Nest or Arlo. For pure sensor reliability, many users report fewer false alarms with Abode, which also supports Z‑Wave and Zigbee devices for future expansion.
When you add up the numbers, SimpliSafe’s base kit starts around £199, and the standard monitoring plan adds roughly £180 / year. Compared to a typical contract‑based system that can cost £600‑£800 upfront plus similar monthly fees, SimpliSafe is a clear budget‑friendly pick. Just remember that the lack of a hard‑wired backup and limited smart‑home integrations might be a deal‑breaker for tech‑savvy households.
Bottom line: SimpliSafe delivers on its promise of simple, contract‑free protection. It’s a great fit for renters, first‑time buyers, or anyone who wants a set‑and‑forget alarm without a heavy upfront price. If you need deeper home‑automation or want a fire‑only monitoring plan, looking at ADT or Abode could save you headaches later. Whatever you choose, make sure the system matches your home’s layout, your internet reliability, and the level of monitoring you actually need.
