By Michael Turner
Frontpoint and SimpliSafe are both highly rated DIY home security systems with no long-term contracts and professional monitoring. They compete directly for the same buyers. Here is how they compare across every factor that matters for 2026 purchasers.
Overview
Both Frontpoint and SimpliSafe offer wireless DIY installation, month-to-month monitoring, cellular backup, and 24/7 professional monitoring. The key differences are hardware quality, monitoring features, customer support reputation, and Alexa/Google compatibility.
Full Comparison
| Feature | Frontpoint | SimpliSafe |
|---|---|---|
| Starter kit price | $99–$199 | $244.99 (9-piece) |
| Monitoring from | $15/month | $19.99/month |
| Contract required | ✗ | ✗ |
| Alexa | ✓ | Limited |
| Google Home | ✗ | ✓ |
| Cellular backup | ✓ All plans | ✓ All paid plans |
| Battery backup | 24 hours | 8 hours |
| Intruder Intervention | ✗ | ✓ (Core+) |
| Base station camera | ✗ | ✓ (Gen 3) |
| Customer support | ✓ US-based, highly rated | ✓ US-based |
| Equipment warranty | Lifetime (with monitoring) | 3 years |
Monitoring Cost Over Time
Frontpoint’s $15/month entry tier is cheaper than SimpliSafe’s $19.99/month Core plan. Over three years, Frontpoint monitoring saves approximately $180 at the base tier. However, SimpliSafe’s Core plan includes Intruder Intervention and visual alarm verification — features Frontpoint does not offer. At the $15/month Frontpoint entry level, you get solid professional monitoring without these advanced features.
Equipment Quality
Frontpoint’s sensors are well-built with a long track record for reliability. The lifetime equipment warranty (active while monitoring) is a meaningful differentiator — any sensor that fails is replaced at no cost. SimpliSafe offers a 3-year warranty by comparison. For buyers who plan long-term ownership, Frontpoint’s warranty is a genuine advantage.
Customer Support
Frontpoint consistently rates among the highest for customer satisfaction in independent home security surveys. Their US-based support team is accessible by phone, chat, and email, and the guided setup assistance during initial installation is above average. SimpliSafe’s customer support has improved but still receives mixed reviews in some independent ratings.
Verdict
Both are genuinely good systems. SimpliSafe edges ahead on hardware innovation (Intruder Intervention, base station camera) and Google Home support. Frontpoint edges ahead on cheaper monitoring, lifetime warranty, and customer support reputation. For buyers who value support and long-term reliability: Frontpoint. For buyers who want the most advanced monitoring features: SimpliSafe.
Related: SimpliSafe full review | Top 5 security companies | Alarm systems hub | SimpliSafe vs Ring
