WI
“SimpliSafe is the best choice for those who want professional monitoring without a long-term contract”
The SimpliSafe The Essentials ($199) is recommended with a 8.2/10 consensus score across 10 expert reviews. Experts highlight lowest monitored 5-year cost at $1,278 and no contract — cancel professional monitoring anytime. Wirecutter says: "SimpliSafe is the best choice for those who want professional monitoring without..." Best for: First-time security system buyers, Contract-averse homeowners, Insurance discount seekers.
Recommended10 Expert Reviews
SimpliSafe The Essentials
Security
Consensus Score — 10 experts
8.2/10
Updated March 2026
“SimpliSafe is the best choice for those who want professional monitoring without a long-term contract”
Key Features
- ✓ No contract monitoring
- ✓ Peel-and-stick install
- ✓ Insurance discount eligible
- ✓ $17.99/month monitoring
Best For
First-time security system buyersContract-averse homeownersInsurance discount seekers
What Experts Agree On
What Experts Love
- ✓ Lowest monitored 5-year cost at $1,278
- ✓ No contract — cancel professional monitoring anytime
- ✓ Peel-and-stick sensors with 20-minute setup
- ✓ Qualifies for homeowner insurance discounts of 5-20%
Common Criticisms
- ✗ Closed ecosystem — limited third-party device support
- ✗ No HomeKit support
- ✗ Camera quality lags behind Ring and Arlo
- ✗ Monthly monitoring fee required for mobile alerts
What The Experts Say
PC
“The Essentials kit is the ideal entry point — everything you need at the lowest monitored cost”
Ready to buy the SimpliSafe The Essentials?
Check Price on Amazon$199 · 10 expert sources · 8.2/10 consensus
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer.com participates in the Amazon Associates program. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This consensus review is based on 10 independent expert reviews — we did not test this product ourselves. Always verify current prices and availability before purchasing.