Simplisafe2 Wireless Home Security System 8-piece Plus Package..
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1068 of 1084 people found the following review helpful.
Great Value
By cliffhokie
If you're like me, you HATE monthly reoccurring charges, such as cable, insurance, cell phone companies (I'm looking at you Verizon), etc. Why burn money every month on reoccurring charges? I like to have controlled costs and very little "renting" reoccurring charges. But, I also have a family and like to feel secure, along with getting the home owners insurance discount often offered with home security systems. I've used ADT, Brinks, Broadview, etc. at prior homes. However, when I moved, I wanted to avoid having a land line (cell signal is virtually radioactive in my house, even in the basement). However, the biggest problem I had was that most companies charged ridiculous rates for their wireless monitoring service ($5 additional was the cheapest I could find). In addition, the base monthly rate was fairly high, averaging about $35 (ADT was charging me $45 w/o the wireless), with Ackerman coming in the cheapest at $18 (w/ wireless, they were $23/month). I thought about using Ackerman because I preferred a "professional" doing the job, much like when I had ADT. But, when I experienced their sales rep, lack of customer service, and overall horrible experience, I knew they weren't a legit company I wanted to trust my home and money to. ADT and all of the other more high profile personal home security companies were far too expensive and I would either have to get a home line or pay extra monthly. So, I looked into "Do it yourself" home monitoring and found this company along with two others (one is sold at Lowes). This one seemed to have the best monthly price, price of equipment, and reviews, so I decided to bite the bullet and give it a try despite my hesitations of the unknown.
I've now used this system for several months, and here are the pros and cons:
Pros:
There is no shady sales person that comes to your house, that refuse to give you a solid quote over the phone, only to upcharge you DURING the install and after you sign the contract. This is what Ackerman security tried to pull on my wife and myself and exactly why we cancelled our contract (which they tried to tell us we couldn't). Other companies weren't as shady, but still made obvious attempts at upselling through scare tactics. With this system, what you buy is what you get, no hidden monthly costs or "after-the-fact" purchases. You order through a simple online system completely a la carte, or you can start out with the starter kit (perfect for an apartment) and then add on. You can also call in your order. You then have only one of two monthly possible charges, the basic monitoring which I got (exactly the same as my prior monitoring through the big name companies) where they call you and ask for the code when your alarm is set off, or the slightly more expensive version where you also get text alerts and smartphone app support (I think it is $25/month). Either way, the price is CHEAP. I pay $15 a month. That's it. No upcharge, no extra wireless charge, etc.
They are constantly improving their options. They now have flood detection, a more high tech base with more capabilities, and I'm pretty sure they have several other options to include video monitoring coming up as well as carbon monoxide detection, etc. If they don't have it now, wait a few months, they are always adding options. And best of all, you only have to pay for the equipment. For most like me, they have all of the basic equipment you need such as a panic button, remote, keypad with LCD display, motion detectors, window and door sensors, etc.
Price is almost the same as the "included" equipment with ADT, Ackerman, etc. The problem with the big companies is that they almost always offer supposedly "free equipment", but it is only the keypad, remote is NOT included, and a couple sensors, usually two or three, and maybe a motion detector. Most houses have at least six windows and two to three doors that need sensors. At my last house, I had to shell out $350 extra on top of the "free" equipment to equip my first floor and walkout basement doors and windows. What if you buy a house that already has an alarm system? At this house, it was already equipped with an ADT alarm, which Ackerman claimed they could use and save us money, but after signing the contract, the installation guy tried to charge $300 more for "additional equipment" needed to make it work and supposed faulty sensors. All this was told to us AFTER the installation guy to put in the new computer. News flash, the sensors in traditional wired home alarms are only two magnets with a wire going back to the brain. Why was he a) saying they were broken when they clearly weren't and b) charging $50 per unit?!?!? Anyway, this is just a perfect example a bogus upcharges you get with these companies trying to make an extra buck at your expense. I paid $400 for my entire basement and first floor coverage, to include 14 windows, three doors, the base, the digital key pad, detector, and remote (love having a remote!). I can add additional stuff at any time and the equipment is very competitively priced. It's more money up front for most, but honestly, I paid $100 more than my next best option and I own the equipment myself. Even if you didn't have to pay anything whatsoever from the other company for the equipment and installation, which is highly unlikley, your monthly charges will equal out in less than two years in most instances through companies like ADT (except for Ackerman). At only $100 difference, I paid the difference in compared to Ackerman's $23 wireless service in one year. Over the course of several years, you will make up for what you pay for your Simplisafe system many times over.
What people don't realize is that often, when your alarm is set, the call center that calls you is outsourced. These call centers usually provide alarm call center services to all the competitors. Because they use a certified call center, you get an Insurance certificate that you can use to get a home owners discount, just like ADT, Vector, Ackerman, etc. And best part, one time, when we accidentally set off our alarm, I asked the guy if this was the call center from SimpliSafe, he said he didn't know, they provided service to Simplisafe along with several other companies and listed off five other companies, including... ADT! It was some call center in Jersey. Anyway, same service, same discount, no big name company needed.
As I mentioned before, if you live in an area with decent cell signal, you don't need a land line with this! Has worked flawless so far for us.
The price is AMAZING!!! I saw only one company offer something cheaper, the one from Lowes (forget their brand they carry), but the reviews I saw weren't very good regarding the equipment, it lacked the diversity of equipment and services, and the cost saving was only two or three dollars a month. Otherwise, I am coming in a LOT cheaper than going through a major company. Must have made my neighbor upset, since he is an ADT sales rep.
There is no contract. At all. EVERY other company I called from the major retailers required at least two years to "subsidize" their installation and you couldn't get out unless you moved the service, require installation at the new place and a transfer fee. Some were as many as three years commitment. What if you move before then? With SimpliSafe, NO CONTRACT!
If you want, you can use your alarm without the monthly call center service, maybe you hit hard times or are moving, etc. Turn it off for a month or more, then turn it back on whenever you want!
You can move the equipment and service with you wherever you want. This is great for military families or renters.
Set up is EASY. Took me 30 minutes for a 4000 sq ft home, and I was taking my time to be careful. Units are preprogrammed before delivered.
OK, I know, this sounds stupid, but it's so true. I hate calling customer service lines, and while their customer service line has been perfectly fine when I've had to call them, their Facebook page is awesome! They honestly read all the comments and respond with answers to questions and solutions to problems. I wouldn't suggest this for major issues, but honestly, great resource, I rarely see other companies put the time and effort into their Facebook and timely customer feedback (usually get answers in a couple hours in FB). They also list new product announcements on there.
Online access to account, sensors, alarm history, changes to your system functions, etc. You don't have to go through a stupid key pad with either a tiny LCD screen and only numbers, or worse, only blinking LEDs to tell you you did something right or wrong.
Cons:
The equipment felt a little cheaper relatively, not quite as quality as some other companies, most notably in the window/door sensors. Additionally, they use one AA battery in each sensor, so the sensors are relatively LARGE on one side. I do like the blue indication LED on them that blinks when the unit opens or closes, but overall, they aren't very low profile like wired sensors from ADT, etc. This became a problem with some of our windows which have the larger wood blinds that rub up against the sensors. The equipment works perfectly, but you can't help but notice that they are a step below in aesthetic and ergonomic quality.
The way they get around having individual installation capable without professionals is that each unit is battery powered, so no drilling and running wires. However, this means that every sensor has batteries. Batteries have to be replaced every five years. The good news is that they come with lithium AA batteries, and they are easily replaceable. However, this is a little bit of a hassle if you have a lot of doors, etc., and have to replace them all in five years. However, 30 minutes every five years for free installation? The base is wired and carries a couple day charge should the power go out. This is good, because you don't have to worry about losing functionality in the event of a power outage. However, this is still a little bit of a hassle and sensors like the main door will probably have to be replaced sooner than others that get triggered rarely. The good thing is the base tells you when a sensor is out.
In addition, to make the install easier, they use 3M adhesive tape on the backs. Mine have stuck perfectly thus far, but I would much prefer a sturdier way to install for those of us willing to put in the extra time, something involving nails/screws. I don't know what the longevity of 3M is, but I will keep my fingers crossed on this one.
The base unit isn't loud as I'd prefer. This might be fine for a smaller house or apartment, but for a larger house, you can't hear it that well from other floors. They do have an optional louder speaker that is more than loud enough (almost too loud), I just wish that they had offered a little more decibels in the base unit.
I like the fact that the base unit has a backup battery and love the blue LED indicator. However, I don't like the aesthetic style and it has to be within a certain distance from the key pad. I wish the base had a better range to communicate with the key pad so I could put it in a more discreet location, some people may not have a lot of flexibility in where to put this unit.
This isn't really their fault, more of a warning for those that order without reading the details from the company that are advertised on their page. They do say this isn't meant for large homes. I'm stretching the limits of this units range with my 4000 sq ft home (3000 on two floors and 1000 in a finished basement). I think they suggest 5000 sq ft is the max recommended for the sensors to communicate with one base. It works fine for mine, but any larger and this might pose a problem. I believe I have a fairly large house, but obviously, there are ones larger than mine.
Remote works, but the USB cap is poorly designed, it will not stay on. This is minor, and doesn't affect functionality, but it does make the remote look a little cheap with the cap missing, looks like a large USB stick on your keychain.
You MUST have good T-Mobile cell signal where you are. Mine is ridiculously good, but you really just need decent signal. If you are really rural where cell signal is nonexistent, wireless might not be an option for you. You can plug it in via Ethernet chord or phone line as well, if I'm not mistaken, and still enjoy a low cost alternative to the big companies.
You don't have as much customization options such as allowing for certain home functions like setting the alarm to only go off with certain sensors at certain times, etc.
Conclusion:
Okay, so the lists look similar in length. However, most of my gripes in the cons are either warnings for certain customers that won't be able to use this, or, minor ones, ones involving aesthetics and ergonomics, not so much in functionality. I gave these mostly as a "heads up" to individuals. The truth is, I have zero regrets with this system. It works, it works well, there is zero fluff, they advertize what it does and doesn't do, and honestly, I basically get everything I got from the other companies, more in some instances since they are all about technology improvement and are constantly upgrading their equipment. If I have to sacrifice a couple minor things such as larger sensors or minor aesthetic or ergonomic flaws for all the benefits I get, count me in! LOVE IT! And best parts, no contract, commitment, shady sales guy, and the monthly price is AWESOME. I feel that I have a lot of perspective in this too since I've used several other companies before, all traditional type services. I would recommend this to anyone that fits in the categories I have mentioned needing an alarm. If you aren't frugal and don't mind wasting your money on more expensive monthly systems that lock you in, go for it, there's a sucker born every minute. Otherwise, buy this system!
*Update: Correction, it isn't AA lithium batteries, it is CR123A. Looks like AA, but not as common. Bad news, it costs $4.95 per battery! through SimpliSafe. Good news is Amazon has these batteries through companies like Energizer for $12 for an eight pack.
*Update 2 (1/7/14): Year and a half and going, here is the update so far. The base station does use AA's while the sensors use the CR123A. This comes in handy because the base pad batteries have already had to be replaced once due to low power after approximately 9 months. Uses 4 (I think) and are definitely cheaper (I purchase a ton at Costco at a time anyways for all of my remotes). I'm not sure if I had to replace them this early because it is the most used device (I use the keypad everyday) or because their original batteries were cheap knockoff brand, or both. I'm hoping my lithium batteries in next will last over a year ($1 a year investment). Replacement was dead simple. Pull off wall (plate stays behind), replace, pop back on wall plate. The sensors still work (I did have to reposition one because it was not close enough). The system works as I can attest to after accidentally setting it off several times myself and also while someone was housesitting once and I always get a call from the security company asking if everything is ok. Definitely a great product so far. If something goes wrong that will make me think otherwise, will be sure to update.
467 of 475 people found the following review helpful.
Excellent Alternative but far from perfect!
By J_Onyx
I write this from conviction that people thinking of investing in this alarm system alternative need a more thoughtful review than the many here who quickly post a gushing review and the few who post nonsense negative reviews.
1st Simplisafe is easy to install yourself and it is a quality budget alternative to the big alarm system companies (who rely on less than ethical sales methods) who relieve people of a few thousand dollars and lock them into an expensive 2 to 3 year monitoring contract.
The hardware is easy to install and get working & for less than $400 most people can seriously discourage felons from targeting their home. Simplisafe is much more up front & consumer oriented than other alarm companies BUT Simplisafe sales department does do its share of hype & exaggeration. You cannot install the sensors & motion detectors in the mindless simple way you are lead to believe. If you slap them up in a few minutes, you will regret it. Take a few minutes and determine the best places to position the sensors & detectors.
The advertising shows people just mindlessly sticking sensors and detectors around their house. Then, in response to criticism that people report their senors or detectors fell off, Simplisafe blames it on the owner for not (dah...) cleaning the area first. Even that is hype because cleaning is not enough. It's not wise to just rely on the sticky tape for the heavier pieces, especially the keypad and the motion detectors. Simplisafe techs know this which is why each sensor has a removable installation panel with two screw holes and screws.
There are two significant flaws in the Simplisafe system which Simplisafe advertising and information tip toes around and buyers do not realize until after they buy and install their system. I'll bet many long term Simplisafe owners still do not know about the flaws.
FLAW NUMBER ONE IS THE ENTRY SENSOR. They are excellent for your outside doors but inadequate for windows. The problem? Unlike the wired big alarm company alarm systems, Simplisafe sensors are "one size fits all" but what is good for a door is not good enough for windows. The 21st century home B&E is smash and grab. Unless you live in a high end home in an upper income neighborhood, you are at risk for an amateur smash and grab break-in or the new wave home invasion. Your break-in felon is most probably full-time party animals feeding some drug habit lifestyle. They usually break or cut windows, not carefully pry them open or try windows until they find one they can open. Simplisafe entry sensors work only when a door or window is properly opened.
Its best to use the motion detectors to cover entire rooms and their windows and use the entry sensors just for doors. You may also want to consider NOT using the SIMPLISAFE signs but buy ADT or Brinks signs and decals instead. Some party animal groups think their way to researching alarm systems on Internet and they know about cell phone apps that they can use to monitor police radio activity. Ann Arbor, Michigan just arrest a gang of four such felons. Alarms didn't stop them. A member was stopped with stolen property in his car. He told on the others so he could get off easy.
SECOND FLAW IS THE Alarm. It Is REMARKABLY WEAK! Do not simply rely on the ineffective alarm that comes in the base unit or simply on monitoring services. When seconds count, the police are always minutes away and their budgets are being seriously cut at the same time property crime is soaring. Buy the "extra siren" & mount it outside. The siren irritates the entire neighborhood. The felon isn't going to risk that rare neighbor who cares enough to look and call the police. Consider adding a wireless security camera. Mine sends condensed video to a remote 30 day DVR.
There are unemphasized positives about Simplisafe, namely the keychain remote. It includes a panic button which instantly sets off the alarm and launches the call center into action. Monitoring is only 14.99 a month. For an elderly relative living alone the panic button alone is worth the cost of a Simplisafe System. Seniors can use it to live more safely and 14.99 a month for home alarm, personal safety and health is a real bargain. Those EMT service call button services (Call for help) alone cost $40 or more a month!
279 of 286 people found the following review helpful.Great system if you do your homework
By JD
I installed this system on 06/14/2013. I did a bunch of research and found many of the online reviews to be dated and inaccurate since the new SimpliSafe2 came out in 2012. I absolutely love the system but if you don't think through your purchase you might be disappointed. Let's talk about the gotchya's:
1) Buy extra sirens! The base unit comes with an 85db siren and if it's the only one you have then the thieves will know EXACTLY where to find it and smash it before your 30 second entry delay is up. Extra sirens will beep on the entry delay and when in full alarm sounding mode they will drown out the base siren and the thieves will be less likely to find your base station and destroy it before the signal goes out to the monitoring company.
2) Buy extra motion sensors for rooms with your most vulnerable windows. If a thief smashes a window the entry sensor will never trip since it never moves. Security is always best in layers! I chose to add motion sensors for my doors as well so I have TWO layers of detection on all my most vulnerable entry points.
3) The cellular network used by SimpliSafe is T-Mobile. Make sure you've got a good signal. I'm in the middle of a major city so this is not an issue.
4) The wood screws that come in the package are not good for mounting entry sensors on steel/metal doors. You might need to make a trip to the hardware store for appropriate screws if you don't want to use the double sided sticky tape provided with the equipment.
Now let's move on to unadvertised, yet complained about, issues:
1) All new equipment can be mounted with screws. Take the extra time to screw things in. It will help prevent false alarms from stuff falling off doors and walls and the purpose of your system is to protect your life and property. The tape is good but screws will always be better.
2) The system is AMAZINGLY flexible and the website is awesome! Each sensor is unique and can be given a name. They can also be set to instantly trigger the alarm whether in home or away mode OR just send an SMS/E-mail when triggered. You can change the time of the entry delay for home or away mode. Sadly there is no exit delay for home mode which kinda sucks if you're leaving the house and your spouse and/or children are still inside. Eh, I have the $25 monitoring package so I can set home mode from my smart phone... The app is great too!
3) Only the base station talks to you. It would be nice if the keypads talked/beeped too.
4) The SMS & email alerts are fantastic. You can add as many as you like.
5) After it's all installed it takes the company 72 hours before they will begin to dispatch police for alarms. They call this a "Practice Mode". At first I was a bit irritated but after a couple days I learned to appreciate it. I accidentally triggered my alarm a few times because I forgot to take it out of home mode when I walked out a door. I've learned... thanks to the practice.
Conclusion:
SimpliSafe went out of their way to respond to customer complaints and address those issues in the SimpliSafe2. They also went out of their way to make the system easy to install and operate. It's really simple and intuitive. The setup CD had step by step instructions. I sent an e-mail with a question and they responded in a timely fashion. The website is incredibly easy to use and a very powerful control system for the alarm which was an unexpected surprise. Do your homework, be thoughtful about how and where you place your sensors, and you too should have a good experience with this system.
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