SimpliSafe vs Frontpoint: Which is the Best Choice?

Introduction to SimpliSafe and Frontpoint

When people search for Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe, they’re usually choosing between two popular DIY home security approaches: one focused on affordability and simplicity, and the other on richer features and tighter support. This article compares SimpliSafe and Frontpoint across equipment, installation, monitoring, smart‑home integration, and customer service so you can pick the system that fits your needs.

• SimpliSafe is known for budget‑friendly, contract‑free monitoring, fast DIY installation, and a streamlined product lineup that’s easy to manage. For a deeper look at SimpliSafe’s equipment and packages, see our SimpliSafe review.
• Frontpoint positions itself as a more feature‑rich DIY option with broader smart home integration, strong customer support, and monitoring features aimed at users who want more automation and managed services.

Both systems use wireless sensors and support typical components—keypads, entry sensors, motion detectors, and cameras—but they target different priorities:

• Choose SimpliSafe if you want a straightforward, low‑cost system with flexible monitoring choices and quick setup.
• Choose Frontpoint if you value advanced smart home compatibility and a higher level of customer support, and don’t mind paying more for those extras.

In the sections that follow we’ll break down the similarities and differences in detail—covering features, installation, monitoring and pricing, and customer service—so you can weigh trade‑offs and decide which system best matches your home and budget.

Overview of Key Similarities and Differences

If you’re comparing Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe, the two brands share a lot in common but they’re built for different priorities. Below is a concise look at what’s similar, where they diverge, and which system fits which buyer.

What they have in common

• DIY installation: Both systems are designed for homeowners who want to install equipment themselves—most sensors are wireless and use peel‑and‑stick mounts.
• Basic equipment lineup: Keypads, door/window sensors, motion detectors, and indoor/outdoor cameras are available from both vendors.
• Mobile apps and remote control: Each company offers an app for arm/disarm, alerts, and live video viewing.
• 24/7 professional monitoring: Both support professional monitoring (though the structure and pricing differ).
• Portability: Because they’re DIY systems, you can take either system with you if you move.

Major differences to consider

• Monitoring options and contracts: SimpliSafe is known for flexible monitoring (including a no‑contract option and a self‑monitoring pathway), making it friendly for renters and budget‑conscious buyers. Frontpoint generally centers on professional monitoring and often involves contract terms—this can mean higher monthly fees but more included services.
• Price and value: SimpliSafe prioritizes lower upfront and monthly cost overall. Frontpoint typically positions itself at a mid‑to‑premium price point in exchange for expanded features and support.
• Smart home integration: Frontpoint offers broader smart‑home compatibility and more advanced automation options; choose Frontpoint if you want to integrate many third‑party devices. SimpliSafe supports core automations but is more limited in third‑party integrations.
• Customer service and hands‑on support: Frontpoint consistently scores higher for customer support and onboarding assistance, which can be valuable if you want more help during setup or troubleshooting.
• App experience and user friendliness: SimpliSafe often receives better ratings for app usability, and many users find its setup quicker and simpler. Frontpoint’s app is feature‑rich but can be a little more complex.
• Advanced monitoring features: Frontpoint includes features like crash & smash protection, automated system checks, and more extensive user‑code management. SimpliSafe focuses on straightforward alarm response and optional video‑verified workflows for some plans.
• Trial and returns: SimpliSafe typically offers a longer money‑back window, while Frontpoint runs a risk‑free trial—helpful details to confirm before purchasing.

Which should you pick?

• Pick SimpliSafe if you want lower cost, a simpler DIY setup, and flexible/no‑contract monitoring. See our full SimpliSafe review for equipment and plan details.
• Pick Frontpoint if you prioritize advanced smart‑home integration and strong customer support and are willing to pay more for a fuller managed experience.

Next up: we’ll dive into a feature‑by‑feature comparison so you can see how cameras, automation, and monitoring features line up side‑by‑side.

Feature Comparison of SimpliSafe and Frontpoint

When evaluating Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe, the difference often comes down to specific features: how each handles smart home integration, camera capabilities, and the control options you’ll use every day. Below we compare the most important feature areas so you can see which system matches your priorities.

Cameras & video capabilities

• SimpliSafe: Focuses on user‑friendly cameras with live view, two‑way audio, and event clips that work well for everyday monitoring. SimpliSafe also offers video‑verified alarm workflows and cloud video storage on paid plans.
• Frontpoint: Offers comparable live view and motion alerts but emphasizes integration with broader monitoring workflows and video verification options tied to its professional monitoring service.

Takeaway: both brands deliver solid camera basics; choose SimpliSafe for a simpler, app‑centric camera experience and Frontpoint if you want tighter camera‑to‑monitoring integration.

Smart home integration and automation

• SimpliSafe: Supports core smart automations and common voice assistants, making it easy to control with your phone or smart speaker. Its automation set is straightforward but somewhat limited compared with more automation‑focused vendors.
• Frontpoint: Provides broader smart home integration and more advanced automation options, making it a better fit if you rely on multiple third‑party devices (smart locks, lights, thermostats) or want complex routines.

Takeaway: pick Frontpoint for extensive automation and third‑party compatibility; pick SimpliSafe if you prefer a simpler setup that “just works.”

Sensors, detectors and equipment variety

• SimpliSafe: Offers a compact, modern lineup of door/window sensors, motion detectors, environmental sensors (smoke, CO, flood) and stylish hubs. The range is ideal for typical home protection needs.
• Frontpoint: Generally provides a wider selection of sensors and specialty devices, giving more options for customized setups and advanced home automation.

Takeaway: Frontpoint gives more equipment flexibility; SimpliSafe keeps the product line lean and easier to manage.

App, control options and user experience

• SimpliSafe: Known for a clean, easy‑to‑use app that makes arming/disarming, viewing cameras, and managing users straightforward. Many users find its mobile experience the most intuitive. See our full SimpliSafe review for more on app features.
• Frontpoint: Offers a full‑featured app with robust notifications and device control. The trade‑off is slightly more complexity due to richer features and integrations.

Takeaway: SimpliSafe prioritizes simplicity and speed; Frontpoint prioritizes depth and control.

Monitoring features and response

• SimpliSafe: Provides flexible monitoring choices, including professional monitoring and self‑monitoring pathways; advanced features (like video verification and agent‑assisted response) are included on higher tiers.
• Frontpoint: Centers on professional monitoring and includes extras like automated system checks, crash & smash protection, and features designed to support the monitoring center’s response process.

Takeaway: If flexible, contract‑free monitoring matters, SimpliSafe tends to be friendlier. If you want an all‑in package that emphasizes monitored response and additional protections, Frontpoint is geared for that.

Connectivity and reliability

• Both systems support reliable wireless sensors and include cellular backup on monitored plans, which helps keep the system online during internet outages. Frontpoint often highlights dual connectivity options (Wi‑Fi + cellular) and additional remote system checks; SimpliSafe focuses on robust, resilient basics that are easy to set up.

Security extras and unique features

• SimpliSafe: Features like two‑way audio in cameras and agent intervention (on select plans) are useful deterrents. Its streamlined approach and money‑back guarantee simplify trial and return.
• Frontpoint: Adds features that appeal to users who want managed services—identity protection, deeper automation, and monitoring‑centric protections (e.g., crash & smash).

Which system is better for you?

• Choose SimpliSafe if you want a simple, affordable, and easy‑to‑manage DIY security system with flexible monitoring options and a top‑rated app.
• Choose Frontpoint if you want extensive smart home integration, more equipment choices, and a monitoring experience backed by additional protections and customer support.

Next, we’ll walk through the installation differences so you can see how setup and first‑time use compare between the two systems.

Installation Process and Options

Installation is one of the first decisions when comparing Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe. Both brands are built around DIY installation, but the setup experience, available assistance, and pro‑install options differ — and those differences can matter depending on your comfort with tech and your home layout.

SimpliSafe: quick, app‑driven setup (with pro install option)

• SimpliSafe is designed to be very beginner‑friendly. Devices generally arrive pre‑paired or easy to pair; most sensors use peel‑and‑stick mounts and batteries that activate when tabs are removed.
• The system is configured through a guided app that walks you through adding the base station, sensors, and cameras. For typical home kits the process is fast and straightforward, making SimpliSafe a good pick if you want to get protected quickly without a technician.
• If you prefer not to DIY, SimpliSafe offers a professional installation option for a fee — useful if you want hardware mounted with screws, hardwired cameras, or a hands‑off setup. Learn more about SimpliSafe equipment and installation in our SimpliSafe review.

Frontpoint: easy DIY with pre‑configured equipment

• Frontpoint also targets DIYers but leans toward more pre‑configured hardware. Devices typically arrive programmed to your hub, which reduces pairing steps and helps speed setup.
• Cameras and any wired devices can be slightly more involved to install (mounting, power connections, Wi‑Fi setup), so installation may take a bit longer than a basic SimpliSafe kit. Frontpoint’s documentation and support teams are available to help through the process.
• Frontpoint focuses on a fully DIY model—there’s strong remote support, but pro installation options are not a typical part of their standard offering.

Professional installation vs. DIY: tradeoffs

• DIY installation advantages: lower upfront cost, portability (easy to move), and faster setup. Great for renters, tech‑savvy homeowners, and anyone who wants control.
• Professional installation advantages: neater installs, hardwired camera or sensor setups, and peace of mind if you’re not comfortable with the technical steps. This is useful for complex homes, multi‑camera systems, or when devices need to be mounted securely outdoors.

Practical setup tips

• Use the included adhesive for quick setup, but screw‑mount high‑traffic sensors if you plan to keep the system long‑term.
• Place motion sensors and cameras where they have a clear line of sight and minimal obstructions; test alerts and camera angles before finalizing mounts.
• Confirm cellular backup is active (on monitored plans) so the system stays connected during internet outages.
• If you expect to integrate many smart devices, plan locations and network bandwidth before installing cameras and automations.

Which installation style fits you?

• Choose SimpliSafe if you want the easiest, fastest DIY setup with the option to pay for professional installation.
• Choose Frontpoint if you want a pre‑configured, DIY kit with robust support and don’t need pro installation services.

Next, we’ll compare pricing and monitoring plans so you can weigh installation choices alongside long‑term costs.

Comparison of Pricing and Monitoring Plans

Pricing and monitoring plans are often the deciding factor in the Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe choice. Use the details below and the tables to compare up‑front equipment expectations, recurring monitoring fees, and what each plan actually includes.

How to use the pricing tables

• The tables below show each provider’s common plan options, what’s included with professional monitoring (cloud storage, video verification, cellular backup, smart‑home features) and whether there are self‑monitoring or no‑contract choices.
• Start by checking the column for “what’s included” (monitoring level, video, cellular backup). Then compare equipment purchase vs. rental/fees to understand your true first‑year cost.
• Keep in mind promotions and seasonal discounts can change equipment pricing; always confirm totals on the provider site before buying.

Compare SimpliSafe and Frontpoint plans

• SimpliSafe favors flexibility: you can choose self‑monitoring or several tiers of professional monitoring, and the system is designed so you can avoid long‑term contracts if you prefer. For more detail on SimpliSafe equipment and plan structure, see our SimpliSafe review.
• Frontpoint emphasizes an inclusive professional monitoring experience with richer smart‑home integrations and monitoring‑centric protections. That typically means higher monthly costs in exchange for more built‑in services and customer support.

Trade‑offs to consider

• Upfront vs monthly: SimpliSafe often has lower overall monthly costs and greater no‑contract flexibility, but you’ll usually buy equipment up front. Frontpoint can feel more “managed” with more features included in monitoring, which increases monthly cost.
• Self‑monitoring: If you want to avoid monthly fees entirely and handle alerts yourself, SimpliSafe’s self‑monitoring path is more accommodating. Frontpoint focuses on pro monitoring.
• Value of extras: Features like crash & smash protection, automated system checks, and extensive smart‑home automation may justify Frontpoint’s higher recurring cost for some buyers.
• Connectivity: Both vendors offer cellular backup on monitored plans — an important reliability feature if your internet goes down.

Pricing tables
The tables below summarize plan tiers and what they include for each company. Use them to compare monthly monitoring inclusions, video/cloud storage options, and equipment vs. monthly trade‑offs.

Final tip: Pricing and plan names change frequently. Use the tables above to narrow your choice, then confirm the current setup costs and any contract details on the vendor pages before you buy.

Customer Service and Support Evaluation

Customer service and technical support matter more than many buyers expect — especially if you want help with setup, troubleshooting, or alarm‑response questions. Below we compare SimpliSafe and Frontpoint on support channels, responsiveness, user experience, and which type of customer each company tends to serve best.

Support channels and availability

• SimpliSafe: Offers multiple support channels — phone, live chat, and email — plus online help articles and community resources. That makes it easy to get quick answers during setup or small troubleshooting tasks.
• Frontpoint: Focuses on phone support and detailed online documentation/FAQs. Frontpoint’s model emphasizes guided support during onboarding and through the life of the account.

Responsiveness and quality

• Frontpoint generally receives stronger marks for hands‑on, helpful support and guided onboarding. Customers who prefer talking to a knowledgeable rep and a more managed experience tend to report better outcomes with Frontpoint.
• SimpliSafe has broad support options and a large self‑help library; many issues are resolved quickly via chat or phone. However, some users report inconsistent experiences when dealing with complex technical problems.

Handling of installations and technical issues

• Because SimpliSafe is highly DIY‑oriented, many routine issues are solved through the app or online guides; a professional installation option is available if you’d rather not DIY. See our full SimpliSafe review for more installation and support details.
• Frontpoint tends to assist more proactively during setup and troubleshooting, which can shorten resolution times for tricky device or integration problems.

Monitoring center and emergency response

• Both companies provide 24/7 professional monitoring on supported plans, but their monitoring‑support ecosystems differ: Frontpoint’s monitoring packages are designed to include more monitoring‑oriented protections and technician checks, while SimpliSafe gives you flexible monitoring tiers (including self‑monitoring) that affect how incidents are handled.

Common user feedback themes

• Customers who value low cost and self‑service often favor SimpliSafe for its straightforward support and large knowledge base.
• Customers who prioritize responsive human support and a managed experience often prefer Frontpoint despite its higher price point.

How to evaluate support before you buy

• Try contacting each company’s support line or chat during your decision process and note wait times and the quality of answers.
• Ask specifically about monitoring escalation, false‑alarm policies, and what’s covered under warranty or guarantee.
• Check recent customer reviews to see whether response times and issue resolution have improved or worsened.

Which is best for you?

• Choose Frontpoint if you want a higher‑touch support experience and stronger onboarding assistance.
• Choose SimpliSafe if you prefer flexible, mostly self‑service support with multiple contact options and an easier DIY focus.

Next up: answers to common questions about features, contracts, and plans in our FAQ section.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the common questions people ask when comparing Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe, with concise, practical answers to help you decide.

Q: How does Frontpoint compare to SimpliSafe in terms of pricing?
A: Frontpoint generally has higher upfront equipment costs and higher monthly monitoring fees than SimpliSafe, which positions itself as the more budget‑friendly option. Promotions and bundle deals can change totals, so verify current offers before buying.

Q: What monitoring plans are available for Frontpoint and SimpliSafe?
A: SimpliSafe offers flexible options including self‑monitoring and multiple tiers of professional monitoring. Frontpoint focuses on professional monitoring packages with more included services and automation features.

Q: Which system is more user‑friendly: Frontpoint or SimpliSafe?
A: SimpliSafe is often viewed as more user‑friendly for DIY installation and everyday management, with a simpler app experience. Frontpoint provides more advanced features and stronger onboarding support, which may be preferred by users who want a guided setup.

Q: Is Frontpoint’s customer service better than SimpliSafe’s?
A: Many users report that Frontpoint provides more consistent, higher‑touch customer support. SimpliSafe offers multiple contact channels (phone, chat, email) and a large help library, but support experiences can vary.

Q: Are there contract requirements for Frontpoint and SimpliSafe plans?
A: SimpliSafe offers no‑contract monitoring options. Frontpoint typically requires a contract that can range in length (customers should confirm current terms), and early termination fees may apply depending on the plan.

Q: What smart home features does Frontpoint offer versus SimpliSafe?
A: Frontpoint supports broader smart home integration and more advanced automation options for third‑party devices (locks, lights, thermostats). SimpliSafe covers basic automations and major voice assistants but is more limited for extensive smart‑home setups.

Q: What is the typical trial or return policy for each company?
A: Frontpoint commonly promotes a risk‑free trial window, while SimpliSafe offers a longer money‑back guarantee. Check each provider’s current trial/return terms before purchasing.

Q: How do the installation processes differ?
A: Both systems support DIY installation. SimpliSafe is usually quicker and simpler to set up; Frontpoint devices often arrive pre‑configured but camera or wired device installs can be a bit more involved.

Q: What are the advantages of choosing SimpliSafe over Frontpoint?
A: SimpliSafe’s strengths include lower monthly costs, no long‑term contracts, and easy DIY installation—good for renters and budget‑conscious buyers.

Q: How do the alarm systems differ between Frontpoint and SimpliSafe?
A: Both deliver reliable alarms. Frontpoint may include more monitoring‑centric features (automated checks, crash & smash protections), while SimpliSafe emphasizes straightforward alarms with optional video verification on higher tiers.

Q: What alternatives should I consider if I don’t want SimpliSafe or Frontpoint?
A: Alternatives include larger national providers and DIY options such as ADT, Ring, and other smart security brands—each with different trade‑offs in cost, installation, and monitoring style.

Q: Is Frontpoint worth the higher cost?
A: If you prioritize exceptional customer support, comprehensive smart‑home integration, and monitoring‑focused protections, Frontpoint can justify the extra monthly cost for many users. If price and flexibility matter most, SimpliSafe may be the better fit.

Q: How do the two compare on equipment variety?
A: Frontpoint typically offers a wider range of sensors and smart devices for customization. SimpliSafe keeps a leaner product line focused on the most common home security needs.

Q: How often do SimpliSafe and Frontpoint release software updates?
A: Both companies provide regular software and firmware updates. Frontpoint is frequently noted for rolling out updates tied to new automation and integration features.

If you want deeper details about SimpliSafe’s devices and plans, see our full SimpliSafe review. For specific contract terms, trial windows, or current promotions, check each provider’s site before you buy.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

When deciding between Frontpoint vs SimpliSafe, the right choice comes down to what you value most: cost and simplicity or support and advanced smart‑home capabilities.

• If your priority is affordable, easy DIY protection with flexible monitoring choices and a highly usable mobile app, SimpliSafe is the better fit. It’s ideal for renters, first‑time buyers, and anyone who wants to avoid long‑term contracts. For more detail on SimpliSafe’s equipment and plans, see our in‑depth SimpliSafe review.
• If you prioritize hands‑on customer support, deeper smart‑home integration, and monitoring‑focused protections, Frontpoint is worth the extra monthly cost. It appeals to buyers who want a more managed experience, more device options, and stronger onboarding help.

Quick recommendation checklist

• Choose SimpliSafe if you want: lower monthly costs, no‑contract options, fast DIY installation, and a simple app experience.
• Choose Frontpoint if you want: robust customer service, extensive smart home automation, and monitoring features that emphasize verification and managed response.

Other considerations

• Review the monitoring terms and any trial/return policies before you buy — a trial or money‑back guarantee can make testing either system low‑risk.
• Factor in whether you prefer to buy equipment up front (common with SimpliSafe) or accept higher monthly fees for more included services (common with Frontpoint).
• Test support responsiveness by contacting each company during your research — support quality often makes the difference after purchase.

Bottom line: for most budget‑conscious, DIY buyers, SimpliSafe provides the best balance of ease, flexibility, and value. For buyers willing to pay more for higher‑touch service and broader automation, Frontpoint is the stronger choice. Confirm current promotions, trial periods, and contract terms on each provider’s site before making your final decision.

William Eames

William is a tech buff and former corporate security officer turned cybercrime analyst. Computers have few secrets left for him, but home security and alarm systems… Well, those have plenty of secrets for their users, which William is now uncovering and explaining. His articles on home security helped many people take the matter seriously, invest in highly performing systems, and avoid becoming victims of burglaries.