Both SimpliSafe and Cove are solid choices for home security, offering DIY installation, no contracts, and cellular backup. Cove stands out with its faster emergency response time and TripleTouch alarm response. SimpliSafe provides a broader range of monitoring options, including a free self-monitoring option, and integrates with August Locks. The best choice depends on individual priorities: speed and false alarm prevention (Cove) versus monitoring flexibility and smart home compatibility (SimpliSafe).
| Attribute | SimpliSafe Whole Home Security System | Cove Security Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Monitoring Options | Offers optional 24/7 professional monitoring with different plans, including 24/7 coverage, emergency dispatch, and mobile app access. Higher-tier plans offer "Active Guard" monitoring. Professional monitoring is not required. | 24/7 professional monitoring with Basic and Plus plans, utilizing RapidSOS technology for faster emergency dispatch. |
| Equipment Cost | Equipment packages range from around $250 to $730, depending on the number of sensors and devices included. SimpliSafe often offers discounts and deals on their equipment. | Components range from $15 to $129. A basic system can cost around $350-$500. Discounts often available. |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | Monthly monitoring costs range from $0 to $80. Self-monitoring with camera recording is available for around $10 per month. Professional monitoring plans start around $22 per month. More expensive plans include additional features like "Active Guard" protection. | Cove Basic is $19.99/month, and Cove Plus is $29.99/month. |
| Contract Length | SimpliSafe does not require long-term contracts. You can cancel, upgrade, or downgrade your monitoring plan at any time without extra fees. | No long-term contracts. Cancel anytime without penalties. |
| Installation Difficulty | Designed for DIY installation. Most equipment uses peel-and-stick adhesive. The SimpliSafe app provides step-by-step installation instructions. Professional installation is available for an additional fee, starting around $125. | Designed for DIY installation, typically taking under 30 minutes. Professional installation available for $129. |
| Cellular Backup | Systems include a cellular backup, ensuring the system stays connected to the monitoring center even if Wi-Fi is down. Cellular backup requires a professional monitoring plan. | All systems include cellular backup using AT&T's 4G LTE network. |
| Smart Home Integration | Integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Limited integration with other smart home devices and platforms. It also integrates with August Locks. | Cove Plus plan integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant. |
| Mobile App Features | The SimpliSafe app allows you to arm and disarm the system remotely. You can also view live camera feeds, receive alerts, and control smart locks. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices. | Smartphone control via the Cove app. |
| Emergency Response Time | Claims a fast emergency response time. The average response time from alarm activation to dispatch center contacting police is around 90 seconds. "Fast Protect" monitoring and video verification can lead to faster police response. | Approximately 30 seconds using RapidSOS technology. |
| Equipment Warranty | Offers a one-year limited hardware warranty. A lifetime warranty is included with some professional monitoring plans. | Cove Basic includes a one-year equipment warranty. Cove Plus includes a lifetime equipment warranty. |
| Power Outage Protection | Systems have a battery backup that lasts up to 24 hours. The base station has a built-in battery that automatically kicks in during a power outage. | 24-hour battery backup for the hub. |
| Environmental Monitoring (Fire, Flood) | Offers environmental monitoring for smoke, carbon monoxide, water leaks, and extreme temperatures. You need to purchase these sensors separately. The system can send alerts for these events. | Offers environmental monitoring for fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, and flood. |