LiveWatch vs SimpliSafe: Best DIY Security System

Introduction to Home Security Systems

Choosing the right home security system is about more than buying cameras or sensors — it’s about matching technology, monitoring, and ease of use to your household’s needs. The importance of security has grown as smart devices and connected homes become more common, and today’s buyers balance DIY convenience, long‑term monitoring, and smart‑home compatibility when deciding on a system.

This article compares two common approaches: LiveWatch (a dealer‑backed option that often emphasizes professional monitoring and dealer support) and SimpliSafe (a consumer‑friendly, largely DIY system). If you’re also researching platform differences — for example, Alarm.com vs SimpliSafe — note that Alarm.com is a widely used automation and monitoring platform that powers many third‑party systems and offers deeper smart‑home integrations than some boxed alarm brands. We’ll explain how those platform choices affect features, integrations, and control later in the review.

What to expect in this guide

• A clear look at each provider’s strengths: features, monitoring, installation, and smart‑home integration.
• Practical trade‑offs — e.g., DIY installation and lower upfront cost versus dealer installation and advanced automation.
• Decision checkpoints to help you match a system to your priorities (budget, tech comfort, and desired level of monitoring).

Key factors to consider right away

• Monitoring options: 24/7 professional monitoring vs. self‑monitoring — why it matters for response and reliability (see our deeper discussion on monitoring types in Landline vs. Cellular security systems monitoring).
• Installation: Do you want plug‑and‑play DIY or a professionally installed system?
• Smart home integration: Will you need advanced automation and third‑party device support (the kind many Alarm.com systems offer)?
• Cost and contracts: Upfront equipment vs. monthly monitoring — which fits your budget and tolerance for long‑term contracts?
• Customer experience: Warranty, support, and real‑world reliability.

If you want a SimpliSafe‑specific deep dive before reading further, check our detailed SimpliSafe reviews. Next, we’ll take an in‑depth look at LiveWatch — what it offers, how its monitoring works, and which homeowners it suits best.

Overview of LiveWatch

LiveWatch is positioned as a budget‑friendly home security option that blends professional monitoring with flexible installation choices. For many homeowners it’s a middle ground between full‑service, dealer‑installed systems and simple, self‑installed alarm‑in‑a‑box options — offering dedicated monitoring, mobile control, and straightforward equipment bundles.

What LiveWatch offers

• Key LiveWatch features typically include 24/7 professional monitoring, a smartphone app for arming/disarming and alerts, basic home‑automation compatibility, and both DIY and dealer‑assisted setup options.
• The system tends to appeal to buyers who want professional monitoring without committing to large national providers. That said, LiveWatch leans more toward core security (sensors, entry contacts, motion detectors, video) than advanced smart‑home automation platforms like many Alarm.com‑powered systems.

How monitoring and support work

• LiveWatch emphasizes professional response, so if continuous monitoring and alarm response are priorities, it’s a sensible choice. If you’re weighing connectivity and reliability options (cellular backup vs. landline/wifi), read our primer on monitoring technologies: Landline vs. Cellular security systems monitoring.
• Customer support varies by provider and plan; LiveWatch often provides dealer or partner support rather than the fully centralized, direct‑to‑consumer model you see with some competitors.

Trade‑offs to consider

• Strengths: accessible monitoring plans, simple equipment bundles, and the ability to get professional monitoring without a major national contract.
• Limitations: more limited third‑party smart‑home integrations compared with Alarm.com platforms, and some users report mixed experiences with equipment quality and higher monthly fees compared with bare‑bones DIY services.

Who LiveWatch is best for

• Homeowners who want professional monitoring and easy setup without the price and commitment of a full dealer install, and who prioritize security basics over advanced home automation.

If you want to compare how LiveWatch’s mobile features stack up against other app‑based systems, our overview of home security apps is a helpful next read. Next we’ll take a closer look at SimpliSafe to see how a DIY‑focused provider compares on cost, ease of use, and smart‑home support.

Overview of SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is one of the most recognizable names in plug‑and‑play security — built around DIY monitoring, easy setup, and a focus on affordable home security. It’s aimed at homeowners who want a low‑hassle system they can install themselves, with the option to add professional monitoring and camera services as needed.

What SimpliSafe delivers

• Straightforward, modular equipment (base station, sensors, cameras) that’s designed for fast DIY installation and immediate protection.
• Flexible monitoring options: you can choose basic self‑monitoring or add 24/7 professional monitoring for emergency response.
• A mobile app for alerts, arming/disarming, and camera access that most users find simple to use.
• A wide range of add‑on devices (glass‑break sensors, life‑safety sensors, indoor/outdoor cameras) that make it easy to scale from a starter kit to a more complete system.

Platform and smart‑home compatibility

• SimpliSafe supports common smart‑home features (voice assistants, select smart locks and cameras), but it’s more of a closed, consumer‑focused ecosystem compared with third‑party platforms like Alarm.com. If you’re specifically weighing alarm com vs simplisafe, remember they operate on different platforms and are not designed to work together — Alarm.com emphasizes deeper automation and broader third‑party integrations, while SimpliSafe prioritizes simplicity and out‑of‑the‑box usability.

Support, warranty and monitoring trade‑offs

• SimpliSafe is known for user‑friendly customer support and gives buyers both DIY and paid professional options. Warranty and protection perks vary by plan and promotion, and advanced camera or monitoring features may require higher‑tier subscriptions. That means SimpliSafe is often the cheaper upfront path, but some features can raise the total monthly cost if you add them later.

Who SimpliSafe is best for

• Renters or homeowners who want an affordable, no‑fuss system they can install themselves.
• People who prioritize ease of use and straightforward monitoring choices over extensive smart‑home automation.
• Buyers who want to control costs by starting small and adding sensors or cameras over time.

For a deeper, brand‑specific look at SimpliSafe’s latest hardware and user experience, see our full SimpliSafe reviews. Next up: a side‑by‑side feature comparison to help you decide between LiveWatch and SimpliSafe based on the exact functionality you need.

Feature Comparison Between LiveWatch and SimpliSafe

If you’re deciding between LiveWatch vs SimpliSafe, the differences come down to monitoring approach, expandability, and smart‑home depth. Below is a feature‑focused comparison to help you match each system to your priorities — 24/7 monitoring, home automation, ease of installation, and real‑world reliability.

Monitoring & response

• LiveWatch: Emphasizes professional monitoring as a core offering; many packages include continuous monitoring and dealer/partner support. Good option if you want a monitored system without a large national installer.
• SimpliSafe: Offers both self‑monitoring and optional 24/7 professional monitoring, letting you choose lower ongoing cost or full emergency response.
• Trade‑off: LiveWatch simplifies the monitored experience; SimpliSafe gives more control and tiered choices.

Equipment & expandability

• LiveWatch: Focuses on core security sensors (entry contacts, motion detectors, basic cameras). Equipment bundles are straightforward and often sold with monitoring plans.
• SimpliSafe: Modular approach with a wide catalog of sensors, indoor/outdoor cameras, environmental sensors, and accessories you can add over time. Better for incremental upgrades.
• Trade‑off: SimpliSafe is easier to scale piece‑by‑piece; LiveWatch is typically more bundle‑focused.

Installation & setup

• LiveWatch: Offers DIY options and sometimes dealer‑assisted setup depending on the reseller. Good for buyers who want professional monitoring without a mandatory install visit.
• SimpliSafe: Designed for fast DIY installation — most users can get protected in minutes. Professional install is available via third parties if you prefer.
• Trade‑off: SimpliSafe wins on speed and simplicity; LiveWatch may be preferable if you want vendor help setting up sensors.

Smart‑home integration & home automation

• LiveWatch: Provides basic home automation and mobile control but has limited third‑party integrations compared with platform‑driven systems.
• SimpliSafe: Supports common integrations (voice assistants, select smart locks and cameras) within a consumer‑focused ecosystem.
• Note for readers researching “alarm com vs simplisafe”: Alarm.com‑based systems typically offer deeper automation and wider third‑party device support than either LiveWatch or SimpliSafe. That matters if advanced home automation is a priority.

Mobile app & user experience

• LiveWatch: App allows arming/disarming and alerts; functionality can vary by dealer.
• SimpliSafe: Known for a simple, intuitive app for alerts, camera access, and system control. Many users find SimpliSafe’s app easier for everyday management.
• Trade‑off: SimpliSafe delivers a more consistent, consumer‑oriented app; LiveWatch’s experience depends more on the reseller and plan.

Cameras & video features

• LiveWatch: Offers camera options but typically focuses on basic video monitoring functionality.
• SimpliSafe: Wide camera lineup with straightforward cloud video options; some features require a higher subscription tier.
• Trade‑off: SimpliSafe gives more camera choices and a smoother DIY video setup; advanced professional video features may still favor Alarm.com platforms.

Connectivity & reliability

• Both providers use internet and cellular options depending on equipment and plan. If connectivity and backup matter to you, read about monitoring link options in our guide to landline vs cellular security systems monitoring. Reliable cellular backup improves response during network outages.

Contracts, warranties & support

• LiveWatch: Often sold through dealers or partners — warranty and support depend on the seller and the monitoring package.
• SimpliSafe: Clear warranty and predictable support structure; many users appreciate transparent DIY support and upgrade paths.
• Trade‑off: SimpliSafe’s direct consumer model makes policies easier to find; LiveWatch’s reseller model can be flexible but variable.

Who each system suits best

• Choose LiveWatch if you want a monitored system with less commitment to a national provider and prefer having a dealer/partner handle monitoring sign‑up.
• Choose SimpliSafe if you want affordable home security, easy DIY installation, and the ability to expand over time with a simple, user‑friendly app.

For a closer look at SimpliSafe’s hardware and user experience, see our full SimpliSafe reviews. If app control and integrations are high on your list, our overview of home security apps can help you compare mobile features across platforms. Next, we’ll break down pricing to show how monitoring and equipment choices affect total cost of ownership.

Pricing Structures of Both Systems

Understanding LiveWatch pricing and SimpliSafe pricing means separating upfront equipment costs from ongoing monthly fees and watching for contract or add‑on requirements. Below we explain the key cost drivers and how to use the pricing tables to compare total value.

What affects cost

• Upfront equipment: Some providers bundle equipment with a monitoring plan or offer low‑cost starter kits; others sell hardware separately. Consider whether equipment is included with monitoring or requires an upfront purchase.
• Monthly monitoring: Plans range from self‑monitoring (lower or no monthly fee) to full 24/7 professional monitoring (higher monthly fee). Compare what each plan includes — video storage, smart‑home features, and cellular backup can raise monthly cost.
• Contracts and cancellation: Some vendors require long‑term contracts for discounted hardware or professional install; others offer no‑contract monitoring. Check the fine print for early‑termination fees.
• Add‑ons and upgrades: Cameras, environmental sensors, and advanced automation often require higher subscription tiers — so a low starting price can increase over time as you add features.

How to read the tables below

• Use the tables to compare: (1) whether equipment is included, (2) the baseline monthly fee for professional monitoring, (3) which features are locked behind higher tiers, and (4) contract requirements or promos. Look at both upfront and recurring costs to estimate first‑year and multi‑year value.

Quick pricing comparisons — what to expect

• SimpliSafe: Geared toward affordable home security with low upfront entry and flexible, no‑contract monitoring options. It’s often cheaper to start, but some advanced video and automation features require higher‑tier subscriptions. Good choice if you want low initial outlay and the option to scale. See our deeper SimpliSafe coverage in our SimpliSafe reviews.
• LiveWatch: Frequently marketed with monitoring plans that include equipment or promotional bundles. It targets buyers who want professional monitoring without big national contracts, but monthly fees can be mid‑range and some integrations are limited. Check equipment‑inclusion details carefully to understand total cost.

Value for money considerations

• Low upfront cost + expensive add‑ons can be more expensive after a year than a higher upfront purchase with a lower monthly fee.
• If 24/7 professional monitoring is essential, evaluate the response features included in the monthly plan (alarm response, police dispatch policies, video verification). For technical differences in connectivity that impact monitoring reliability, see our guide on landline vs cellular monitoring.
• If smart‑home automation is a priority, factor in whether the platform (or third‑party platforms like Alarm.com) requires higher‑cost subscriptions to unlock integrations.

Pricing tables

• The tables below show the current plan structure and help you compare upfront equipment vs monthly monitoring for each brand. Use them to estimate first‑year and ongoing costs for your desired configuration.

Next, we’ll walk through the installation processes for both systems so you can match pricing decisions with the setup model (DIY vs professional) that best fits your needs.

Installation Processes Explained

The installation process is one of the biggest practical differences between systems. How a system is installed affects cost, setup ease, flexibility, and whether you need a pro for more advanced wiring or automation. Below we break down the typical approaches for DIY installation and professional installation, and what to expect from LiveWatch and SimpliSafe specifically.

DIY installation (what to expect)

• Simplicity: SimpliSafe is built for DIY — components are largely wireless, pre‑paired, and designed to mount with adhesive strips or simple screws. The mobile app and base station guide you through setup and sensor testing.
• Ease of use: DIY systems emphasize plug‑and‑play setup, minimal tools, and step‑by‑step instructions so many homeowners and renters can get protected without a technician.
• Good for: renters, budget‑conscious buyers, and those who want to install and expand the system on their own schedule.
• Considerations: DIY works best for standard doors/windows and straightforward camera placement; complex homes (multiple buildings, hardwired zones, or integrated whole‑home automation) may require more work.

Professional installation (what to expect)

• When to choose it: Choose professional installation if you need hardwired sensors, discreet wiring, custom camera placement, or if you prefer a hands‑off experience. Pros handle equipment placement, wiring, verification, and liaison with monitoring services.
• Trade‑offs: Professional installs can add upfront cost and sometimes tie into contract options, but they deliver polished setup and often better cable management and calibration. They’re typically recommended for larger properties or users who want full service.

How LiveWatch and SimpliSafe handle installation

• SimpliSafe: Primarily a DIY provider with a consumer‑friendly kit and clear instructions. Professional install options exist through third‑party services, but the platform is optimized for self‑setup and incremental upgrades. For a full brand breakdown, see our SimpliSafe reviews.
• LiveWatch: Offers flexible paths — many customers install devices themselves, while others purchase through dealers or partners who can provide assisted setup or professional installation. LiveWatch’s reseller model means installation experiences can vary by provider.

Practical setup tips

• Plan sensor placement first (doors, ground‑floor windows, main entryways).
• Mount the base station centrally for reliable wireless reach.
• For cameras, prioritize clear sight lines and ensure Wi‑Fi/cellular connectivity.
• Test every sensor during setup and run a mock alarm to confirm monitoring linkage.
• If backup connectivity matters to you (cellular vs. internet), check your plan — it can affect monitoring reliability.

Which approach is right for you?

• Pick DIY installation (SimpliSafe or DIY LiveWatch) if you want low cost, fast setup, and the ability to expand over time.
• Pick professional installation if you want hardwired reliability, expert placement, or a fully managed experience.

If you’re weighing DIY convenience against professional installation trade‑offs for SimpliSafe versus larger installers, our comparison of SimpliSafe and ADT explores those installation and service differences in more detail: SimpliSafe versus ADT.

Customer Feedback and Pros & Cons

Customer feedback helps reveal how these systems perform in everyday use. Below are the common praise points and complaints reported for LiveWatch and SimpliSafe, followed by practical tips to evaluate which provider better matches your needs.

What customers praise

• LiveWatch
• Appreciated for offering professional monitoring without the price or commitment of some national installers.
• Many users like the flexibility of buying through local dealers or choosing a DIY path.
• SimpliSafe
• Widely praised for easy DIY installation, a clean, intuitive mobile app, and generally affordable home security entry costs.
• Customers value the modular equipment lineup that makes it simple to start small and expand later.

Common complaints and issues

• LiveWatch
• Feedback often notes variability in customer support and installation experience because systems are sold through different dealers — service quality can depend on the reseller.
• Some users report concerns about equipment quality or higher monthly monitoring fees compared with bare‑bones DIY plans.
• SimpliSafe
• Complaints typically center on incremental costs — advanced camera features, video storage, or added automation often require higher‑tier subscriptions.
• While support is generally good, a subset of users wishes for more robust professional‑installation and advanced home‑automation options.

Quick pros & cons summary

• Pros for both: accessible monitoring options, clear paths for DIY install, and straightforward mobile control.
• Cons to weigh: additional features (video, automation, cellular backup) can increase monthly costs; LiveWatch’s reseller model may produce inconsistent post‑sale support.

How to use customer feedback when choosing

• Check reviews specifically about monitoring response and customer service — those experiences matter more than marketing claims.
• Verify warranty, return policies, and whether equipment is included with monitoring to avoid surprises. For general cautions about when a system may not be right for you, see our analysis on why not to buy a home security system.
• Look for recent user reviews and forum threads (e.g., Reddit, dedicated review pages) to get current reliability and support trends.

Who each brand suits, based on feedback

• Choose LiveWatch if you want a monitored system and are comfortable buying via a dealer or reseller and prioritizing professional response over advanced smart‑home integrations.
• Choose SimpliSafe if you want affordable home security with fast DIY installation, a reliable app experience, and the ability to scale without a long‑term contract.

For a deeper dive into user experience and gear specifics, read our full SimpliSafe reviews and compare those findings to LiveWatch offerings before you buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common buyer questions about LiveWatch, SimpliSafe, and related comparisons (including searches like alarm com vs simplisafe). These address monitoring, installation, compatibility, and other typical home security concerns.

Q: How does Alarm.com compare to SimpliSafe for home security?
A: Alarm.com and SimpliSafe serve different needs. Alarm.com is a platform used by dealers and many professional installers that excels at smart‑home integration and advanced automation. SimpliSafe focuses on a simple consumer experience with DIY installation and straightforward subscription tiers. If deep third‑party device support and complex automations matter, Alarm.com‑based systems are stronger; if ease‑of‑use and affordable entry are priorities, SimpliSafe is often a better fit.

Q: Which system is more affordable, Alarm.com or SimpliSafe?
A: SimpliSafe typically has lower upfront entry costs and flexible, no‑contract monitoring options, making it more budget‑friendly for many homeowners and renters. Alarm.com systems can be more expensive overall because they’re commonly paired with dealer hardware and advanced monitoring packages. Always compare both upfront equipment and ongoing monthly fees to estimate total cost.

Q: Can you use Alarm.com and SimpliSafe together?
A: No. They operate on separate platforms and are not designed to interoperate. If you want Alarm.com features (advanced automation, extensive Z‑wave/third‑party support), you’ll need an Alarm.com‑compatible system. For SimpliSafe’s ecosystem, stick with SimpliSafe‑certified devices.

Q: Does SimpliSafe provide 24/7 professional monitoring?
A: Yes. SimpliSafe offers both self‑monitoring and optional 24/7 professional monitoring plans. The professional option connects to a monitoring center for emergency response; self‑monitoring relies on user alerts without automated dispatch unless you upgrade.

Q: What type of installation does SimpliSafe offer?
A: SimpliSafe is designed for DIY installation — wireless components, adhesive mounts, and app‑guided setup make it fast for most users. If you prefer, professional installation is available through third‑party providers, but the brand’s core experience emphasizes self‑setup.

Q: Is SimpliSafe known for good customer service?
A: SimpliSafe is generally recognized for accessible customer support and clear DIY resources. As with any provider, experiences vary; check recent user reviews for current service trends. For a more detailed brand overview, see our full SimpliSafe reviews.

Q: What are some alternatives to SimpliSafe?
A: Alternatives include national, professionally installed brands like ADT (for full concierge installs), Vivint (advanced smart home features), and budget‑friendly options like Cove. Which alternative fits depends on whether you prioritize professional installation, automation depth, or low upfront cost.

Q: How can I monitor my SimpliSafe system?
A: You can monitor SimpliSafe via the mobile app (self‑monitoring) or subscribe to a professional monitoring plan for 24/7 emergency response and cloud video features. Advanced camera and automation capabilities may require higher subscription tiers.

Q: What should I check about connectivity and reliability?
A: Confirm whether a provider offers cellular backup in addition to internet/Wi‑Fi — cellular fallback improves monitoring reliability during outages. For more on connectivity options and how they affect monitoring, read our guide on landline vs cellular security systems monitoring.

If you have a specific use case (rental unit, smart home hub, multi‑site property), ask and we’ll point you to the best configuration and monitoring choice.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Choosing between LiveWatch and SimpliSafe comes down to priorities: do you want the simplest, most affordable DIY system, or a dealer‑driven monitored setup with a different balance of features? Below are concise, actionable conclusions to help you decide.

Key takeaways

• If you prioritize ease of use, low upfront cost, and fast DIY installation, SimpliSafe is the stronger fit. It’s designed for consumers who want an intuitive app, flexible no‑contract monitoring, and the ability to scale equipment over time.
• If you want professional monitoring through a dealer or reseller and prefer buying a monitored bundle (sometimes with equipment included), LiveWatch can be a good option — especially if you value a monitored service without a national installer’s contract.
• For advanced smart‑home integration and broader third‑party device support, consider an Alarm.com‑based system (searches like “alarm com vs simplisafe” reflect this exact trade‑off). Alarm.com systems and Qolsys panels often offer deeper automation and more integrations than consumer‑focused platforms.

Recommendations by user type

• Renters or budget buyers who want quick setup: choose SimpliSafe (DIY installation, flexible monitoring).
• Homeowners who want a hands‑off, monitored experience and are comfortable buying through a dealer: consider LiveWatch.
• Smart‑home power users who need advanced automation, Z‑Wave/third‑party device support, or professional integrator options: look at Alarm.com‑compatible systems or dealer solutions (these typically outperform both SimpliSafe and LiveWatch on automation).

Practical next steps

1. List your must‑have features (24/7 monitoring, video storage, smart locks, cellular backup).
2. Compare total cost of ownership (equipment + monthly fees) — pricing can shift value more than base hardware.
3. Read recent user reviews and support experiences for the brand or reseller you’re considering; see our full SimpliSafe reviews for examples.
4. If connectivity and backup matter, review our guide on landline vs cellular monitoring.
5. If you need professional installation or enterprise‑style automation, research Alarm.com or dealer offerings and compare them to SimpliSafe’s consumer model.

Final thought
No single system is “best” for everyone. Use these comparison insights to match the system to your top priorities: simplicity and affordability (SimpliSafe), dealer‑based monitored service (LiveWatch), or advanced smart‑home automation (Alarm.com and dealer/Qolsys solutions). If you tell us which features matter most, we can recommend a specific plan and kit that fits your home.

Isabelle Landau

Growing up with Law and Order and CSI shows taught Isabelle Landau one thing: if people back then had high-quality home security systems, those series would have been way shorter. In our modern world, technology helps us keep burglars away easily, and this is what Izzy studies and writes about: alarm systems, home security, protection systems, and more.