Choosing a home security system in 2026 can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Three brands consistently rise to the top: Ring, SimpliSafe, and Vivint. Each offers distinct approaches to protecting your home, but they cater to different needs, budgets, and lifestyles.
Ring appeals to DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious shoppers. SimpliSafe strikes a balance between affordability and professional monitoring. Vivint delivers premium, professionally installed smart home security. But which one is right for you?
This comprehensive guide breaks down every aspect of these three leading security systems. We’ll compare installation, equipment, monitoring options, costs, app features, smart home integration, and more. By the end, you’ll know exactly which system fits your home and lifestyle.
What types of security systems are Ring, SimpliSafe, and Vivint?
Understanding the fundamental differences between these three brands helps you immediately narrow down your options.
Ring operates primarily as a DIY security company owned by Amazon. You purchase equipment outright, install it yourself, and manage everything through their mobile app. Ring started as a video doorbell company and expanded into full home security systems. Their approach emphasizes affordability, simplicity, and integration with Amazon’s Alexa ecosystem.
The brand targets renters, first-time security buyers, and anyone comfortable with technology who wants to save money on installation costs. Ring’s systems are wireless, portable, and don’t require drilling holes or running wires in most cases.
SimpliSafe also focuses on DIY installation but with a slightly more robust security foundation. Founded as a home security company from the ground up, SimpliSafe offers plug-and-play equipment that’s specifically designed for easy setup. They provide optional professional installation for those who want help.
SimpliSafe appeals to renters and homeowners who want professional monitoring without long-term contracts. Their systems are completely wireless and can be moved from home to home, making them ideal for people who relocate frequently.
Vivint takes a completely different approach as a professional installation company. You cannot buy Vivint equipment and install it yourself. Instead, Vivint sends certified technicians to your home for a custom installation. They assess your property, recommend equipment placement, and handle all setup.
This brand targets homeowners planning to stay in their property long-term. Vivint specializes in comprehensive smart home integration that goes beyond basic security. They’re also suitable for small businesses needing professional-grade protection.
The key distinction here is control versus convenience. Ring and SimpliSafe give you control over installation and flexibility. Vivint takes that burden off your shoulders but requires more commitment through longer contracts and higher costs.
How easy is it to install each system?
Installation difficulty can be a dealbreaker for many people. Let’s examine what you can expect with each brand.
Ring’s DIY setup is remarkably straightforward. Most customers complete installation in under an hour without any special tools. Ring devices come pre-paired with your base station, so you primarily just need to place sensors and cameras where you want them.
The Ring app provides step-by-step instructions with images and videos. You’ll scan QR codes on each device, give them names, and test their connections. The magnetic mounts for door and window sensors require no drilling—just peel and stick adhesive.
Ring cameras do require mounting and some drilling if you want them permanently installed. However, many Ring devices can be placed on shelves or counters temporarily. Battery-powered options eliminate the need for electrical work entirely.
The learning curve is minimal. If you can navigate a smartphone app and use a screwdriver, you can install Ring. Customer reviews consistently praise the simplicity, though some users report Wi-Fi connectivity issues during initial setup.
SimpliSafe’s plug-and-play approach might be even easier than Ring. Their latest systems require virtually no configuration. You plug in the base station, peel the backing off sensors, stick them to doors and windows, and you’re done.
SimpliSafe devices auto-detect and connect to the base station. The system walks you through naming each sensor through the keypad or app. There’s no complex pairing process or technical troubleshooting required.
Most SimpliSafe customers report setup times between 30 to 60 minutes for an entire home system. The company also offers a free installation guide with photos showing optimal sensor placement. If you get stuck, their support team can walk you through any issues.
For those who prefer hands-off installation, SimpliSafe offers professional installation services for an additional fee. This gives you the best of both worlds—SimpliSafe’s affordable equipment with Vivint-style installation convenience.
Vivint requires professional installation only. You cannot purchase Vivint equipment and set it up yourself. This approach has pros and cons depending on your perspective.
The installation process begins with a consultation where Vivint assesses your home’s layout, entry points, and security needs. They create a customized system design before installation day. The certified technicians typically spend 3 to 5 hours installing and configuring everything.
Vivint handles all the technical work—drilling holes, running wires if necessary, mounting cameras at optimal heights, and testing every component. They also train you on using the system, setting up automations, and troubleshooting common issues.
This professional approach ensures everything works perfectly from day one. You don’t risk incorrect sensor placement or connection problems. However, you sacrifice installation flexibility and must schedule around Vivint’s availability.
The installation itself is free with most Vivint packages, but you’re locked into their equipment and service. You can’t easily move Vivint systems between homes, making them less suitable for renters or people who relocate frequently.
What equipment and devices does each brand offer?
The available hardware determines what your security system can actually do. Here’s what each brand provides.
Ring offers an extensive lineup focused on video surveillance and basic intrusion detection. Their core products include video doorbells in multiple models, indoor and outdoor security cameras, the Ring Alarm security system with base station, contact sensors for doors and windows, motion detectors, glass break sensors, keypads, panic buttons, and smoke and CO listeners.
Ring’s equipment emphasizes video. Their cameras deliver clear 1080p footage with night vision, two-way audio, and motion detection. The newer models feature improved motion zones and AI-powered detection that distinguishes between people, packages, and animals.
The Ring Alarm integrates these cameras with traditional security sensors. The second-generation base station includes battery backup and supports Z-Wave devices for limited smart home expansion. Ring also offers smart lighting through their partnership with Ring-branded lights.
Ring’s equipment feels modular—you can start with just a doorbell and camera, then add alarm components later. This flexibility suits people who want to build their system gradually. However, Ring’s sensors are relatively basic compared to competitors.
SimpliSafe provides more robust security-focused equipment. Their system includes a base station with cellular backup, wireless keypad, entry sensors, motion sensors, glass break sensors, panic button, smoke detector, water sensor, freeze sensor, indoor camera (SimpliCam), outdoor camera, video doorbell, and smart lock.
SimpliSafe’s base station is the system’s brain. It includes a loud 95-decibel siren, cellular connection for backup communication, and battery backup lasting 24 hours. The base station communicates with sensors using SimpliSafe’s proprietary wireless protocol, which is more reliable than standard Wi-Fi.
Their sensors are purpose-built for security rather than adapted from other uses. The entry sensors detect both opening and forceful break-ins. Motion sensors ignore pets up to 50 pounds. The glass break sensor can detect breaking glass up to 30 feet away.
SimpliSafe’s cameras are adequate but not exceptional. They offer 1080p resolution and night vision but lack some advanced features found in Ring cameras. However, SimpliSafe’s security sensors are generally considered more reliable for actual intrusion detection.
Vivint delivers professional-grade equipment with extensive smart home capabilities. Their lineup includes indoor and outdoor cameras with 4K resolution options, video doorbell camera, smart locks, smart thermostat, garage door controller, water sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, door and window sensors, motion sensors, glass break sensors, smart lighting control, and the Vivint Smart Hub (formerly SkyControl Panel).
Vivint’s equipment is premium quality. Their outdoor camera pro includes smart deter technology that detects lurkers and activates a red ring and spotlight to deter intruders before they act. The cameras offer 4K resolution, HDR video, and advanced AI detection.
The Vivint Smart Hub is a touchscreen control panel that manages everything. It features a built-in camera for visual verification when your alarm triggers. The panel includes cellular and broadband backup, ensuring your system stays connected even if your internet goes down.
Vivint’s smart home integration is unmatched among these three brands. Their thermostat learns your preferences, smart locks can automatically engage when you arm the system, and lights can simulate your presence when you’re away. Everything works together seamlessly through one platform.
The trade-off is cost and commitment. Vivint equipment is significantly more expensive, and you’re required to use their monitoring service. You can’t use Vivint equipment with a different monitoring company.
How do Ring, SimpliSafe, and Vivint handle professional monitoring?
Professional monitoring means trained operators watch your system 24/7 and respond to alerts by contacting you and dispatching emergency services if needed.
Ring offers professional monitoring as an optional add-on through their Ring Protect Pro subscription. This costs $20 per month or $200 annually for unlimited devices at one location. The monitoring is provided through a third-party central station.
When an alarm triggers, the monitoring center receives an alert and attempts to contact you through the Ring app and registered phone numbers. If they cannot reach you or you confirm an emergency, they dispatch police, fire, or medical services to your location.
Ring’s monitoring service is reliable but basic. Response times are generally quick, typically within 30 to 60 seconds of an alarm activation. However, some users report that police response can be slower because Ring’s monitoring is considered less established than traditional security companies.
You can also self-monitor with Ring without any subscription. You’ll receive mobile alerts but won’t have the backup of a monitoring center. This flexibility is perfect for people who want security notifications without monthly fees.
SimpliSafe provides highly rated professional monitoring through their own UL-certified monitoring centers. They offer two subscription tiers: Standard Monitoring at $19.99 per month and Interactive Monitoring at $29.99 per month.
Standard Monitoring includes 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular connection for your base station, environmental monitoring (smoke, CO, water, freeze), and unlimited emergency dispatch. Interactive Monitoring adds camera recording, smart lock control, and app-based system management.
SimpliSafe’s monitoring is considered among the best in the industry. Their response times average around 30 seconds, and they have an excellent reputation with emergency services. Police departments tend to respond faster to SimpliSafe alarms because the company has lower false alarm rates.
One important note: SimpliSafe can still function without monitoring, but you’ll need at least the Standard Monitoring plan to use the cellular backup feature. Without a subscription, your system relies solely on Wi-Fi and offers limited functionality.
Vivint requires professional monitoring as part of their service—you cannot use Vivint equipment without it. Their monitoring starts at $49.99 per month for the Smart Security plan, with higher tiers available.
The Smart Security plan includes 24/7 professional monitoring, equipment warranty, mobile app control, and unlimited emergency dispatch. The Smart Security + Video plan (around $54.99 per month) adds video monitoring, cloud storage, and smart detection features.
Vivint’s monitoring is top-tier. They operate their own monitoring centers and have direct relationships with emergency services. Their average response time is around 30 seconds, and the visual verification capability (reviewing camera footage during an alarm) helps reduce false dispatches.
Vivint’s monitoring also includes proactive services. If your camera detects suspicious activity before an alarm triggers, monitoring agents can issue a voice warning through your outdoor cameras. This smart deterrent often prevents crimes before they happen.
The downside is inflexibility. You’re locked into Vivint’s monitoring throughout your contract period, typically 42 to 60 months. Early cancellation fees can be substantial, often totaling hundreds or thousands of dollars.
What are the costs and monthly fees for each system?
Budget is often the deciding factor for many families. Let’s break down the true costs of owning each system.
Ring’s equipment costs are the most affordable among these three brands. A basic 5-piece Ring Alarm kit costs around $200 and includes the base station, keypad, contact sensor, motion detector, and range extender. Individual components are also reasonably priced: contact sensors cost about $20 each, motion detectors around $30, and video doorbells range from $100 to $230 depending on the model.
A comprehensive Ring system for a typical three-bedroom home might cost $400 to $700 in equipment. This gives you the alarm system plus several cameras. You can start small and expand over time since Ring doesn’t require professional installation.
Ring’s subscription plans are optional but recommended. The Ring Protect Basic plan costs $4.99 per month (or $49.99 annually) per device and includes 180 days of video history for one doorbell or camera. The Ring Protect Plus plan costs $20 per month (or $200 annually) for unlimited devices at one location, plus professional monitoring and extended warranties.
There are no contracts with Ring. You can cancel subscriptions anytime without penalties. This month-to-month flexibility is perfect for renters or anyone who wants to test the system before committing long-term.
SimpliSafe’s equipment is competitively priced. Their starter packages begin around $245 for a basic system with base station, keypad, entry sensor, and motion sensor. More comprehensive packages range from $300 to $500 depending on the number of sensors and cameras included.
Individual SimpliSafe components are affordable: entry sensors cost about $17 each, motion sensors around $30, the video doorbell is $169, and cameras range from $99 to $169. You can customize your system by adding exactly what you need.
A fully equipped SimpliSafe system for a three-bedroom home typically costs $500 to $800 including cameras. This is slightly more than Ring but includes more robust security sensors.
SimpliSafe’s monitoring plans are reasonably priced at $19.99 per month for Standard Monitoring or $29.99 for Interactive Monitoring with camera features. These prices are competitive with industry standards while offering more features than basic monitoring plans.
SimpliSafe also operates month-to-month without contracts. You can pause or cancel monitoring anytime without penalties or cancellation fees. This flexibility is rare among companies offering professional monitoring.
Vivint’s costs are significantly higher due to their professional installation and premium equipment. Upfront equipment costs typically range from $600 to $2,000 depending on your system’s size and features. However, Vivint often provides promotional pricing or equipment financing to reduce upfront costs.
Many customers finance their Vivint equipment over their contract term, which spreads the cost into monthly payments. This can make the upfront investment more manageable but increases your long-term commitment.
Vivint’s monthly monitoring fees start at $49.99 for the Smart Security plan and can exceed $60 for plans including video storage and advanced automation. Over a 5-year contract period, you might pay $3,000 to $4,500 just in monitoring fees.
The total 5-year cost of ownership for Vivint typically ranges from $4,000 to $7,000 depending on your equipment and plan. This is substantially more than Ring or SimpliSafe over the same period.
Vivint requires multi-year contracts, usually 42 to 60 months. Early termination fees can reach 75% of your remaining contract balance, making it very expensive to cancel. This lack of flexibility is Vivint’s biggest drawback for price-conscious consumers.
However, Vivint often includes equipment upgrades and replacements in their monitoring fee. If a camera fails or you want to add new devices, Vivint may provide them at reduced cost or free. This value isn’t available with DIY systems where you pay full price for any replacements or additions.
How do the apps compare?
Your security system’s app is your primary interface for monitoring and control. A clunky app can ruin an otherwise great system.
The Ring app is clean, intuitive, and packed with features. The home screen displays all your devices with their current status. You can quickly arm or disarm your alarm, view live camera feeds, and check recent activity from one central dashboard.
Ring’s app excels at video management. Viewing saved clips is straightforward—you can search by date, time, or device. The timeline view makes it easy to jump to specific events. Video sharing is simple too, letting you download clips or share them via email or social media.
The Ring app integrates seamlessly with Alexa since Amazon owns both companies. You can control Ring devices through voice commands, view camera feeds on Echo Show devices, and create Alexa routines that trigger based on Ring events.
Notifications are customizable. You can set different alert tones for different devices, adjust motion sensitivity, and create schedules for when you receive notifications. Rich notifications on iOS let you see video thumbnails without opening the app.
The main complaint about Ring’s app is that many features require a subscription. Without Ring Protect, you can view live video but cannot access recorded footage. This paywall frustration is common among Ring users who expect more free functionality.
SimpliSafe’s app is straightforward and functional, though less polished than Ring’s. The main screen shows your system status with large arm/disarm buttons. You can view sensor status, adjust settings, and access cameras from the bottom navigation.
The SimpliSafe app’s strength is its simplicity. There’s minimal clutter, making it easy for less tech-savvy users to navigate. The secret alarm feature is particularly clever—it lets you trigger a silent police dispatch if you’re being forced to disarm your system under duress.
However, SimpliSafe’s app has limitations without a subscription. The free version only allows system arming and disarming. You cannot view camera footage, control smart locks, or access advanced settings without the Interactive Monitoring plan.
Camera viewing within SimpliSafe’s app is adequate but basic. The interface isn’t as refined as Ring’s, and video quality appears slightly compressed compared to viewing Ring footage. Timeline navigation is less intuitive than Ring’s implementation.
SimpliSafe supports Alexa and Google Assistant integration for voice control. You can arm and disarm your system through voice commands, though you’ll need to set up a verbal PIN for security. The app doesn’t integrate as deeply with smart home ecosystems as Vivint’s platform.
Vivint’s app offers the most comprehensive smart home control among these three brands. Beyond security functions, you can control thermostats, locks, lights, garage doors, and more from one interface. The app serves as your complete smart home command center.
The Vivint app features an elegant design with a customizable dashboard. You can prioritize your most-used functions, create scenes that control multiple devices simultaneously, and set up smart automations based on time, location, or device triggers.
Smart Deter is a standout feature in Vivint’s app. When your cameras detect suspicious activity, you receive an alert and can trigger deterrent actions—flashing lights, sounding alarms, or broadcasting voice warnings—directly from the app to scare off potential intruders before they break in.
Vivint’s video interface is superb. The 4K camera footage is crystal clear, and the smart detection features identify people, vehicles, and animals. You can draw custom detection zones and receive targeted alerts for specific areas. The video timeline is intuitive with AI-generated event markers.
The Vivint app also includes a Smart Home Hub that recommends automations based on your habits. Over time, it learns your preferences and suggests ways to make your home more efficient and secure.
The main drawback is that Vivint’s app requires their monitoring service. Everything is tied to your active subscription. If you cancel monitoring, the app becomes largely non-functional, unlike Ring where you retain basic control even without subscriptions.
How well do these systems integrate with smart home devices?
Smart home integration determines whether your security system works harmoniously with your other connected devices or exists as an isolated system.
Ring integrates best with Amazon’s ecosystem since Amazon owns the company. Ring devices work seamlessly with Alexa-enabled devices like Echo speakers and Echo Show displays. You can say “Alexa, show me the front door” to view your Ring doorbell on Echo Show.
Ring supports numerous Alexa routines. You can create automations like “When Ring detects motion after 10 PM, turn on porch lights” or “When Ring Alarm is armed, switch Echo to Away mode.” This integration adds significant value if you’re already invested in the Alexa ecosystem.
Ring offers limited integration with Google Assistant. You can view Ring cameras on Google Nest Hub displays and use voice commands to control some functions. However, Google integration isn’t as robust as Alexa compatibility.
Ring’s native smart home support is limited beyond Amazon devices. The base station includes a Z-Wave radio for connecting compatible smart locks, lights, and sensors. However, Ring’s Z-Wave implementation isn’t as full-featured as dedicated smart home hubs.
Ring doesn’t work with Apple HomeKit, which frustrates iPhone users who’ve built their smart homes on Apple’s platform. For true HomeKit integration, you’d need third-party bridges that add complexity and cost.
SimpliSafe integrates with both Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. You can arm and disarm your system, check sensor status, and lock SimpliSafe’s smart lock using voice commands. The integration works reliably but isn’t as deep as Ring’s Alexa compatibility.
SimpliSafe’s smart home ecosystem is limited. They offer a proprietary smart lock and video doorbell that integrate with their system, but options beyond security devices are scarce. SimpliSafe doesn’t include a Z-Wave or Zigbee radio, limiting expansion possibilities.
The SimpliSafe system doesn’t integrate with smart lighting, thermostats, or other home automation devices beyond basic voice assistant support. If you want your lights to turn on when the alarm triggers, you’ll need to create those automations through Alexa or Google Assistant rather than within SimpliSafe’s platform.
SimpliSafe also lacks Apple HomeKit support. This is less problematic than with Ring since SimpliSafe positions itself as a security system rather than a smart home platform. Most customers don’t expect extensive smart home integration from SimpliSafe.
Where SimpliSafe shines is its standalone reliability. Because it doesn’t depend on your smart home ecosystem, it continues working even if your other smart devices experience issues. This independence is valuable from a pure security perspective.
Vivint offers the most comprehensive smart home integration of these three brands. Their system supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and works as a fully functional Z-Wave hub. This means you can connect hundreds of compatible smart home devices directly to your Vivint system.
Vivint’s smart home ecosystem is sophisticated. You can integrate smart thermostats, door locks, garage door openers, lighting systems, smart plugs, and more. Everything works together through Vivint’s platform without needing multiple apps or hubs.
The automation capabilities are impressive. You can create rules like “When the last person leaves home (detected by Vivint’s geofencing), lock all doors, arm the security system, adjust the thermostat, and turn off all lights.” These multi-device automations are smoother than cobbling together routines across different platforms.
Vivint’s cameras integrate with smart doorbells and locks for enhanced security. When someone rings your doorbell, you can see them on your Smart Hub panel, speak to them through two-way audio, and remotely unlock the door if it’s a trusted visitor—all without touching your phone.
The Vivint thermostat learns your preferences and creates schedules automatically. It also integrates with your security system to enter energy-saving mode when you arm the alarm in Away mode. This integration can reduce heating and cooling costs substantially.
Vivint doesn’t support Apple HomeKit, which is surprising given their premium positioning. However, their native platform is comprehensive enough that most users don’t feel the need for HomeKit integration.
The catch with Vivint’s smart home features is that everything requires their monitoring service. If you cancel, your smart home integrations stop working. This vendor lock-in contrasts with Ring and SimpliSafe, where third-party integrations continue functioning regardless of subscription status.
How secure and private are Ring, SimpliSafe, and Vivint?
Security systems protect your home, but what protects your data and privacy from the security company itself?
Ring has faced significant privacy controversies over the years. The company admitted in 2023 that employees had access to customer video feeds, though they’ve since implemented stricter access controls. Ring also shared doorbell footage with law enforcement through their Neighbors app partnerships, raising civil liberties concerns.
Ring videos are encrypted during transmission and storage, but Ring holds the encryption keys. This means the company can theoretically access your videos, even though they claim to only do so under specific circumstances like legal requests or investigating technical issues.
Ring offers two-factor authentication, which you should absolutely enable. This adds an extra security layer requiring a code sent to your phone whenever you log in from a new device. Given Ring’s past security issues, two-factor authentication is essential.
Ring’s integration with Amazon raises additional privacy questions. While Ring states they don’t share video data with Amazon’s retail side, the corporate connection makes some users uncomfortable, especially those concerned about data aggregation across Amazon services.
Ring allows you to control video sharing. You can opt out of providing footage to law enforcement through the Neighbors app. You can also delete video clips at any time, and Ring says they don’t keep copies after deletion.
SimpliSafe maintains a stronger privacy reputation with fewer controversies. The company has not experienced major data breaches or privacy scandals. SimpliSafe positions itself as a security-focused company that treats customer data protection seriously.
SimpliSafe encrypts all communications between your devices and their servers using bank-level encryption. They also offer two-factor authentication for account access. The company states they do not sell customer data to third parties or use it for advertising purposes.
SimpliSafe videos are encrypted and stored on their servers, but like Ring, SimpliSafe holds the encryption keys. This means the company could access videos if legally required or for technical support. However, SimpliSafe has not faced the same scrutiny as Ring regarding employee access to customer footage.
One privacy advantage with SimpliSafe is their limited smart home integration. Because SimpliSafe doesn’t connect to as many third-party services, there are fewer potential data sharing points. Your security data remains primarily within SimpliSafe’s ecosystem.
SimpliSafe’s cellular backup also provides a security advantage. Because the system doesn’t rely solely on your Wi-Fi network, hackers cannot disable your security system by compromising your home network—a vulnerability that affects purely Wi-Fi-dependent systems.
Vivint takes professional-grade security seriously with multiple layers of protection. All communications are encrypted using 128-bit SSL encryption. Vivint’s systems use both broadband and cellular connections, making them extremely difficult to hack or disable.
Vivint offers two-factor authentication and has not experienced major data breaches or privacy scandals. As a professional monitoring company with decades of experience, they follow strict security protocols required for UL certification.
Vivint stores video footage with encryption, and like other providers, they maintain the encryption keys. However, Vivint’s monitoring contracts include clear privacy policies about data access and sharing. The company states they only access customer data for monitoring, technical support, or legal compliance.
One unique Vivint privacy feature is the Ping Camera with a physical privacy shutter. You can physically close the shutter when you want guaranteed privacy from your indoor camera. This mechanical control provides peace of mind that software-only privacy modes cannot match.
Vivint’s professional installation also provides security benefits. Certified technicians ensure devices are properly configured and secured. DIY installations sometimes leave security vulnerabilities due to default passwords, incorrect settings, or poor network security.
The trade-off with Vivint is data retention. Because you’re locked into their monitoring service, Vivint maintains your data throughout your contract term. You have less control over data deletion compared to month-to-month services where you can simply cancel and stop data collection.
All three companies will share data with law enforcement when presented with valid legal requests such as search warrants or subpoenas. This is standard practice and required by law. The difference lies in how proactively they share data and whether they notify you of requests when legally permitted.
Which system is more reliable if Wi-Fi or power goes out?
Your security system’s reliability during outages determines whether it protects you when you need it most—during storms, power failures, or if intruders cut your utilities.
Ring systems are heavily dependent on Wi-Fi connectivity. Most Ring cameras and doorbells require constant Wi-Fi to function. If your internet goes down, you cannot view live feeds, receive notifications, or record video. This is Ring’s biggest reliability weakness.
The Ring Alarm base station includes a 24-hour battery backup, ensuring the alarm system continues working during power outages. However, without internet, the base station cannot send alerts to your phone or communicate with Ring’s monitoring center.
Ring devices with battery power (like stick-up cameras and video doorbells) continue recording locally during brief power outages. However, without Wi-Fi, they cannot upload footage or send notifications. You’ll only see the recorded events once connectivity returns.
If you have Ring Protect Pro with professional monitoring and your internet fails, the base station attempts to use cellular backup. However, this feature requires your base station to be the second-generation model and isn’t as robust as competitors’ cellular connections.
The practical reality with Ring is that your security significantly degrades during internet or power outages. While the alarm system still sounds if triggered, you won’t receive remote notifications, and cameras become essentially non-functional. This makes Ring less suitable for areas with unreliable power or internet.
SimpliSafe excels in reliability during outages. The base station includes both 24-hour battery backup and built-in cellular connectivity. This dual-backup system ensures your security system continues functioning even when Wi-Fi and power fail simultaneously.
When your power goes out, SimpliSafe’s battery immediately takes over with no interruption. The system continues monitoring all sensors, and the siren remains functional. The battery typically lasts 24 hours, giving you a full day of protection during extended outages.
If your internet fails, SimpliSafe automatically switches to cellular backup without any action required from you. The cellular connection communicates with SimpliSafe’s monitoring centers, ensuring police dispatch capabilities remain intact. This is a critical advantage over Wi-Fi-only systems.
SimpliSafe’s cellular backup requires at least the Standard Monitoring subscription ($19.99/month). Without a monitoring plan, the system operates on Wi-Fi only, losing this reliability advantage. However, given the affordable monitoring cost, this limitation isn’t as restrictive as Vivint’s requirements.
SimpliSafe cameras remain a weak point during outages. Like Ring, SimpliSafe cameras require constant Wi-Fi and cannot function during internet outages. However, your alarm system’s core security functions remain operational, which is what matters most during emergencies.
Vivint provides professional-grade reliability with multiple layers of redundancy. The Smart Hub includes battery backup lasting 24 hours and dual-path connectivity using both broadband internet and cellular networks simultaneously.
Vivint’s dual-path communication is more sophisticated than simple backup systems. The Smart Hub sends signals through both your internet connection and cellular network at the same time. If one path fails, monitoring centers immediately receive the signal through the other path without delay.
During power outages, Vivint’s battery backup powers the Smart Hub, door locks, sensors, and the panel’s touchscreen. Most Vivint cameras also include battery backup or continue recording to local storage during outages, though live viewing requires internet connectivity.
If burglars cut your phone line or internet cable (a common burglar tactic), Vivint’s cellular backup ensures your security system.
The Bottom Line
When choosing a home security system, it’s important to review the pros and cons of each option and make the most informed decision possible. If you have any questions about Ring, SimpliSafe, or Vivint, give our security experts a call at (857) 445-4010 or fill out a quick form online. We’ll help answer any questions, and we can help explain to you the benefits of home security from a trusted, local company like Alarm New England. Enjoy best in class technology, customer service, and a local presence – built in MA, CT, and RI for over 53 years.
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