DIY security systems are taking over the residential market. These systems usually don’t require you to sign a contract like conventional security firms do. And the ease of installing these systems makes the prospect of doing it yourself a lot less daunting. Plus, with some decent competition in the DIY home security market now, prices are dropping.
As a security buff with a professional background, I also take my own home security seriously. In this article, I break down two of the major players in the DIY security space: Simplisafe and Arlo. And, we have updated the info, as the products and services of these providers has change recently in 2023!
Arlo & Simplisafe
Two of the real stand-out brands in home security currently are Arlo and Simplisafe. Both are highly rated, at the top of the pile in performance and features, and offer great security with flexible options. Neither require professional installation nor long-term contracts. Both do an excellent job in protecting your family and property from intruders.
While both Arlo and SimpliSafe are excellent, there are significant differences. So, if you are in the market for a DIY home security system to protect your family, the comparison that follows should help.
What Do Arlo and SimpliSafe Have in Common?
- SimpliSafe and Arlo are both 100% wireless and very easy to set up (30 minutes or less).
- Both systems offer no-contract, cancel-at-anytime home security.
- Both companies require up-front purchase of equipment (no pay-as-you-go or rental options).
- SimpliSafe and Arlo both have decent customer service.
What Are the Main Differences Between Arlo and SimpliSafe?
- SimpliSafe has been in operation 10+ years longer than Arlo.
- Unlike Arlo, SimpliSafe does not sell outdoor cameras.
- Arlo’s cameras are superior to SimpliSafe’s.
- Simplisafe does not offer outdoor cameras whereas Arlo offers high quality outdoor cameras.
- Arlo offers extensive home automation whereas Simplisafe does not offer much home automation options.
The two companies are focused on different aspects of home security. Each has excelled in their own niche, although the lines are beginning to blur a little more as both extend their hardware and services. So how do they compare? Which one provides the best security for your home? Read on.
How Do Arlo and SimpliSafe Compare?
So, the main similarities and differences have been summarized, but how do they compare with each other in the areas that matter?
In this article the following key aspects of each system will be compared. These are categories that should be considered when investing in a home security system. For each category a winner is chosen:
- Brand History & Development
- Features
- Monitoring
- Emergency Options
- Cameras
- Home Automation
- Ease of Installation
- Customer Service
- Contracts
- Cost and Value
Brand History & Development- Arlo vs Simplisafe
History & Development of SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe is a company that provides DIY no-contract home security, and it now has hundreds of thousands of customers. It was birthed by a Harvard student when he became frustrated with the existing options of contract-based professionally installed security systems. That was 2006 and even now, SimpliSafe still enjoys growing influence in the home security market.
History & Development of Arlo
Arlo was only founded in late 2018. It began as a Netgear division in 2014 and rebranded as a separate company in 2018. The firm claimed nearly 3 million registered users and 11.7 million devices sold throughout early 2019. In recent years there has been some complaints about it’s services, and with growing competition, there’s suggestions that Arlo should concentrate on ensuring it satisfies it’s current customer base.
History & Development Winner: SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe has been around longer. The customer base is also larger and diverse even though it’s no ADT yet. SimpliSafe wins because of it’s longer, established history and influence in the marketplace.
Features- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Features of SimpliSafe
As an overall home security system, SimpliSafe is more feature-rich than Arlo. While SimpliSafe keep things, well simple, what they do offer works well, and covers all the basic home security bases. These features include motion sensors, door sensors and window sensor to protect entryways, sensors to monitor water leaks, environmental sensors to monitor temperature changes and CO2, their indoor video camera, and teh SimpliSafe video doorbell Pro, as well as remote control with keychain fobs. Their optional 24/7 professional monitoring offers an added level of protection. All of this is affordable and easy to install yourself. Their system can also be expanded easily. Your SimpliSafe system can also be accessed by their mobile app for iOS and Android. It is very simple, effective and highly rated by users.
Features of Arlo
Arlo offers top-of-the-line cameras that provide incredible images up to 4K! Plus infrared night vision as well as spotlights allow amazingly clear color night-time viewing. Arlo cameras are fully loaded with features, including motion- and audio-triggered alerts, arming schedules, customizable activity zones, two-way talking, cloud storage, local backup and smart home integration. Up until the 2022, Arlo did not offer door and window contacts, smoke and CO2 detectors, and professional monitoring service. That pushed Arlo below Simplisafe in the features categories, despite their exceptional wireless cameras. However, Arlo has introduced a game-changing security system. And this could accelerate Arlo toward the front of the DIY home security pack. That’s because their new security combines an innovate yet affordable multi-sensor that combines many functions like door/window contacts, motion detection, tilt recognition, flood and CO2 sensors. Plus, this is rolled into a fully-monitored service, or can be self-monitored, with option of cellular backup. You can read more about the Arlo home security system here. Additionally, Arlo has an excellent mobile app for iOS and Android. It is simple and sleek yet allows lots of configuration and it can now combine both the alarm system as well as camera elements efficiently. The features of Arlo have expanded considerably recently. However, these are still new, so for right now, on the alarm side Simplisafe wins, but on the camera side, Arlo wins. So, I am updating this contest under this category to a tie. (Previously it was a win for Simplisafe)
Features Winner: Tie
Arlo has made enormous strides recently in their new and innovative and highly affordable home alarm system product. This is an area where Simplisafe used to dominate, but the gap is closing. SimpliSafe takes may have a longer more reliable history in the alarm category, but the title might exchange hands soon as Arlo’s new offering gathers more attention and proves itself. Both have excellent mobile apps, with SimpliSafe’s receiving better feedback overall, but Arlo still wins in the camera quality and feature-set. So, it’s a draw.
Monitoring- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Monitoring with SimpliSafe
Simplisafe offers 2 options for monitoring. The free option is to self-monitor. This means the SimpliSafe system will alert you of any breaches in your system. The second option is to pay for professional 24/7 monitoring. There are several packages to choose from depending on your equipment and needs, but basically a professional central station will keep watch for any breaches in your system and then notify you or other contacts, including emergency services, where necessary. The communications all happen via cellular networks.
Monitoring with Arlo
Arlo has just recently stepped into the monitoring game as it has introduced it’s Home Security product. There are several plans to choose from. At the most basic level, you can self-monitor your alarm system. However, when it comes to cameras, there are subscriptions. does not offer 24/7 professional monitoring. But there is a relatively affordable basic cloud storage plan, and notifications can be received on your mobile devices. The monthly video storage options can be found here, but are summarized below:
- No Plan: You can self-monitor your alarm system using the app via notifications. As for cameras, the features available will depend on the camera model. Click here for more details.
- Arlo Secure: Unlimited 4K video cloud storage for 30 days. Plus interactive alerts and access to priority support. $12.99/month for unlimited cameras or $4.99 for single camera. Only really applies to cameras.
- Arlo Secure Plus: Added benefits of 24/7 emergency response and critical alerts. Also includes interactive alerts and access to priority support. $14.99/ month for unlimited cameras. Only really applies to cameras.
- Arlo Safe & Secure: This is where the alarm system services come in. Professional monitoring, video verification, cellular and battery backup, one-tap safety (panic buttons), family-check-ins and safety monitoring.
Monitoring Winner: SimpliSafe (but Arlo has closed the gap)
This is another category where SimpliSafe was the winner by a long shot. However the gap has closed dramatically as Arlo has entered full force into the professional alarm monitoring market. This could be a tie given that some of the features push Arlo ahead of SimpliSafe. However, these are a bit more untested compared to SimpliSafe’s service which has established, proven and trusted by hundreds of thousands of customers. So, SimpliSafe just edges Arlo out on this.
Emergency Options- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Emergency Options with Arlo
Arlo cameras connect to the internet using WiFi and a local network connection. There is also the cellular backup which is highly recommended for alarm system use. This adds another elevel of redundancy and peace of mind. With their newly introduced 24/7 professional monitoring, you can have the alarm system fully monitored, in addition to monitoring incidents and responding o them yourself via the app. The range of options that come with the Safe & Secure Plan are considerable and include some novel services like Family Check-Ins, Family Safety Monitoring, Crash Detection & Response, and Cloud Witness Incident Reporting. The monitoring servcies are quite extensive. At their most basic level, they will provide emergency dispatch and follow-up, as they state on the Arlo site: Our 24/7 Emergency Response monitoring team calls the fire / police / medical responders for you and provides the location information you set in the Arlo app. After emergency responders are dispatched to your home, Arlo’s 24/7 monitoring team provides updates to you via your preferred method of communication (text or call).
Emergency Options with SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe provides wireless communication via cellular-data, just like mobile phones. To ensure a quick and dependable connection and response, the system communicates using cell towers. That means no landline is required. Landlines are less effective and less reliable than cellular systems. They are also more prone to being sabotaged by intruders. SimpliSafe claims a dispatch response time of 9 seconds, but most users get a call between 15 and 45 seconds on average.
Emergency Options Winner: Tie
Again, since Arlo has stepped into the professional monitoring and home alarm market, they have closed the gap with SimpliSafe. While not as established, their service offerings for monitoring are more extensive and include novel in-app emergency options that have real-life application. SimpliSafe keeps things simple and does it extremely well, and have a good track record of doing so. Overall, this is probably all results in a tie.
Cameras- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Cameras from Arlo
This is where Arlo shines. After all, it is a security camera manufacturer from it’s inception. Arlo has a number of excellent cameras for both indoor and outdoor use. The build quality on all is excellent. The image quality is outstanding and available up to an impressive 4K resolution. The features and accessibility are innovative, and there are countless ways for integration with other smart home devices. All cameras are easy to setup and install. Their camera line is extensive and includes the HD Arlo Pro and Pro 2, the 2K HDR Pro 3 and Pro 4, and the impressive Arlo Ultra 2 with 4K resolution. They have dedicated indoor cameras too, the Arlo Q and Q Plus. Some models include built-in sirens and spotlights even, as well as excellent night vision and two-way audio. They also have Arlo Go (a mobile camera with cellular connection) and Arlo Baby (a high-end babycam), as well as a doorbell camera. Battery life is excellent typically 2-6 months, depending on usage, and their is the option to use solar panels for charging outdoor models. Options for viewing video recordings are pretty extensive, especially for their paid plans. Arlo basically provides a complete security camera system that has set the pace for the industry.
Cameras from SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe manages to offer very competitive equipment pricing across it’s entire hardware lineup by manufacturing them in-house. They are also able to keep a closer eye on quality control too. While they do have an extensive range of devices that work well, the one noticeable lag is the quality and features of their cameras. SimpliSafe has recently added an outdoor camera to their line, and they do have a doorbell camera which is good. Overall, these cameras are decent, but lack some features of others from Arlo. SimpliSafe’s cameras are not bad quality by any means, but SimpliSafe doesn’t differentiate itself and can’t compete with Arlo’s camera models… yet.
Camera Winner: Arlo
The Arlo system is the winner in this category. Not only does Arlo beat SimpliSafes cameras in image quality, features and build, but also most other wireless cameras on the market. SimpliSafe has a large line of devices but their cameras are not yet on par with Arlo. However, SimpliSafe seems to be improving them continuously so the gap will lesson.
Home Automation- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Home Automation with Arlo
Arlo’s SmartHub solutions as well as WiFi cameras provides access to many third-party home automation options. This allows the user to control lights, lock/unlock doors remotely, and link with a host of other platforms and devices including SmartThings, IFTT, Zapier and others. There’s also the standard access to Google Assistant, Nest, Amazon Alexa and Apple Homekit. So, Arlo has a lot going on with automation within their camera ecosystem. At present there aren’t as many automation options with their alarm system. But, I imagine these will be introduced and be similar to their camera integrations.
Home Automation with SimpliSafe
While SimpliSafe has taken the overall lead in this head-to-head comparison, this is another category that SimpliSafe does struggle in. Yes, SimpliSafe does communicate with Alexa, Google Home and Nest, but it’s basic. The availability of options for integration with other smart devices for automation just isn’t there. If building a smart home network is important for you, then SimpliSafe currently cannot deliver what you’ll need.
Home Automation Winner: Arlo
With it’s parent company’s background in network devices, Arlo has deep experience and a foundation built on network communications. The cameras just happen to be the device that Arlo built with this networking knowledge. That’s why Arlo can claim the top spot in this category- the home automation options with Arlo are impressive. Conversely, SimpliSafe really lacks in home automation options.
Ease of Installation- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Ease of Installation with Arlo
Arlo installation is easy-peasy. Mounting cameras is incredibly straightforward. They have a couple of different options, but the included magnetic mounts are simple, clean and easy to install on any surface both indoors and out. Cameras are easy to enroll and connect to. In fact, you can be up and running in just minutes
Ease of Installation with SimpliSafe
There’s no professional required for this setup! And probably no calls to support either. SimpliSafe is, like it’s name, super simple to install. It really is surprising but you can have a system up and running in just a few minutes. The presets mean that configuration is short and sweet. It really is an easy DIY install with SimpliSafe.
Ease of Installation Winner: Tie
Both Arlo and SimpliSafe have perfected the DIY security concept and made installation a breeze. No wires means it’s quick and hassle-free to place devices wherever you need. Plus setup and configuration of devices is really simple in both systems, so this works out as a tie.
Customer Service- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Customer Service with Arlo
Arlo has established an enormous online community. This represents a wealth of assistance and knowledge. Their knowledge-base pages cover almost every issue you may encounter, covering setup and installation how-tos to troubleshooting. Articles, images and videos help in supporting the customer. There’s also a 24/7 Arlo live chat option you can use to get more specific questions answered. Arlo also offer free phone support for their basic package for 90 days.
Customer Service with SimpliSafe
One of the reasons for the growth of SimpliSafe has been positive word of mouth. People talk well about their systems not just because of their experience with the hardware and moniotring but also because of consistent customer service. The vast majority are satisfied with SimpliSafe’s customer support and that has earned them an A+ BBB rating. Of course, there are always some complaints and these are typically based around some experience of longer wait times and limited hours of contact.
Customer Service Winner: Arlo
This category is pretty close. However, Arlo nudges out SimpliSafe because of the wealth of information you can access on their knowledge-base. In true DIY fashion, you can search for any kind of help in their database alone. It really is helpful and addresses most questions you may ask.
Contracts- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Contracts with Arlo
Arlo offer contract-free month-to-month plans. These month-to-month plans offer a lot of flexibility. If you need to repurpose your cameras or move, then it’s not expensive penalty or outsstanding obligation involved.
Contracts with SimpliSafe
As with Arlo, there are no contracts with SimpliSafe. You can cancel at any time and there’s no penalty. This is another reason that separates these DIY systems from their professionally-monitored contract based competitors in the old-school security industry. It’s really attractive, especially for those who are more mobile or younger and in transition. SimpliSafe systems include a 2-month money-back guarantee too!
Contracts Winner: Tie
Both companies provide the option to sever your service with their month-to-month subscriptions. No contracts required. This makes both very flexible, especially if your circumstances change. This is a tie.
Cost Effectiveness- Arlo vs Simplisafe
Cost Effectiveness of Arlo
Arlo doesn’t pretend to be cheap or even mid level. It’s a pricey system, but you get what you pay for. Arlo’s cameras run from $60-$300. They aren’t as cheap as some, including SimpliSafe’s cameras, but Arlo does excel in their camera quality and features. So, if you want a camera-based security system with the best image quality, a ton of features, and have indoor and outdoor options, then Arlo is right up there. What is surprising is the affordability of their very versatile new alarm system. The devices run at less tha $40 and provide a lot of flexibility. Plus, the monthly fees for all the features across alarm and cameras is less than $30. That’s pretty decent! but for those kind of prices you could invest in a more complete home security system from another company, like SimpliSafe.
Cost Effectiveness of SimpliSafe
The key behind SimpliSafe is that it keeps things simple. If that’s what you need – a reliable, no frills security system without advanced features – then SimpliSafe is the answer. Their basic security with 24/7 professional monitoring starts at $229.96 upfront, with $14.99/month for monitoring. That truly is an incredible price. Their system really is cost-effective.
Cost Effectiveness Winner: SimpliSafe
With SimpliSafe, you can safeguard your home with a complete DIY set up starting in the mid $200’s. If you’re willing to spring for the premium packages and add-ons, you can customize your system to your heart’s content. Overall, SimpliSafe delivers tremendous value for the equipment and service you get. However, the alarm system from Arlo is also very affordable and potentially better bang for your buck when the flexibility of their devices is considered. However, their cameras (while excellent) are pricey, so that pushes their complete system above SimpliSafe.
Overall WINNER, Arlo vs SimpliSafe,
Arlo vs SimpliSafe
| Arlo | SimpliSafe | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand History & Development | Winner | |
| Features | - | - |
| Monitoring | Winner | |
| Emergency Options | - | - |
| Home Automation | Winner | |
| Cameras | Winner | |
| Ease of Installation | - | - |
| Customer Service | Winner | |
| Contracts | - | - |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Winner | |
| OVERALL | TIE | TIE |
So there’s been a change. SimpliSafe was the overall winner. That was until the introduction of Arlo’s alarm system and 24/7 professional monitoring. The gap has now been closed enough to call this a tie! But make sure whatever service you go with, it meets your needs…. Is it really the best for your home security? Check the following:
But Which One is Really Best for Your Home? Arlo or Simplisafe?
Well the answer to that depends. The gap has closed between SimpliSafe and Arlo., While Arlo has been dominant in wireless cameras, SimpliSafe has dominated the basic home alarm market with proven professional monitoring and no-contract subscriptions. Arlo now also offers home alarm with their flexible multi-sensor devices and 24/7 professional monitoring. So, it’s a close call and results in a tie. But, there are some slight difference that may help your decision-making.
Go with Simplisafe if…
If you’re looking for simple DIY setup and basic home security, SimpliSafe is the way to go. SimpliSafe has introduced an outdoor camera which extends their system greatly, but home automation is limited. It’s a very cost-effective home security solution that’s also nimble and lightweight. So, for cost-effectiveness, Simplisafe is a great choice. You may use SimpliSafe to secure your property and family for as little as $14.99. Alternatively, avoid paying any monitoring fee by purchasing the equipment and ‘self-monitoring’ your home!
Go with Arlo if…
If you want superior video surveillance inside and outside your property, as well as a basic alarm system, then Arlo is the way to go. The cameras can be more costly, but the alarm system is flexible and presents good value for the investment and flexibility of options.. Also, with Arlo, you’ll have access to an expanding range of home automation functions and capabilities. And if you can live without the expensive video storage solutions, you can pay as little as $4.99 monthly or go all-in which includes everything (professional monitoring unlimited cameras, and host of other features) for $24.99/month.
The Final Score
Both Arlo and SimpliSafe are quality solutions to enhance your home security. Which is best will be determined by your specific needs, as outlined above. As always, do your own research, like you’re already doing. And when you do make a choice and invest, make sure you get to know the system so you use it effectively. For example, you should consider what best practices to put in place so you reduce like false alarms and ensure the system is reliable and performing at it’s best for you.
Be smart and stay safe.