SimpliSafe - Home Security System with Outdoor Camera - White

Purchasing Simply Safe Security System from Best Buy was one of many best decisions I made. The system was affordable and I was able to choose the equipment that I needed from the numbers of sensors camera door locks outside camera as well. Setting up the equipment was easy including setting up the service with @SimplySafe . I’m pleased with the App features. I feel Simply Safe . at home and when I’m away. AngelaPickering

Purchased for daughter and son in law. He already has it set up and is very pleased with it

I needed a security system for our new place. I wanted something affordable and could do the work. Initially I was not planning on the subscription but I ended up activating it. This particular package has everything you need for a starter kit and you can pick up additional sensors based on your needs. These are very easy to set up and the outdoor camera lasts long (i havent charged it since installing and we have it on best quality). The indoor cam is ok in terms of quality and ability to detect motion.

SimpiSafe has been a credible brand for DIY security for years now, but they recently introduced their outdoor camera and this kit truly seems complete! UNBOXING & SETUP: - Simplisafe really makes the unboxing process truly easy. They individually box each item so that its easier to unbox and figure out each item at a time rather than just doing it all at the same time. - Setting up was truly a breeze! You do need the “Simplisafe” app on your phone, but once you sign in with an account the app takes you step by step through the process and it was very smooth. - Once the base is set up, its really up to you on adding whatever additional things you want for it! So you can add the camera, motion sensors, keypad, etc individually or add them later if you want to take it slow. PROS: - Simple put, Simplisafe works fantastic! When everything is all set up, it all just works smoothly with each other and the ease of use is great. - The base is really elegant and looks nice in a room. Plus I like the sound functionality it has when a door is open, or even when the alarm goes off it is serious! Just nice to have that central base holding everything together properly. - I think this package really comes with a lot to offer for the price. An indoor cam, outdoor cam, 3 door sensors, 1 motion sensor, keypad, and the base station. Just a lot to offer that covers a lot of functionality! - The indoor cam is fantastic! It was easy to set up and the settings in the app help you really narrow in on how you want it to work. Plus it has a speaker/microphone on it for talking to whoever is in the room. - I also like on the indoor cam the “shutter” which gives an extra level of privacy. You can turn off the shutter if you want, but its nice to have in case you want that extra level of privacy when you are home and don’t need the camera recording. - The outdoor camera is also fantastic! The picture looks great and the fact that its wireless really hammers home the DIY ease of this entire system. - Lastly, everything is tied together nicely in the SimpliSafe app. Its easy to check on everything, monitor the home, and arm or disarm the system depending on where you are. Having a good app is important and this one is well done. CONS: - The system comes with a 30 day free but Simplisafe forces you to decide right away whether to use it or decline it. I elected to use it because why not, however I found out afterwards the ONLY way to cancel the free trial, is to call in! On top of that, if I want to change my plan, the ONLY way of changing it is to call in. To me, the whole point of these DIY systems is to choose whether you want to pay for professional monitoring or just have some peace of mind that you can monitor it by yourself. And to have no option to change or cancel your plan online is very inconvenient. - The app has a history timeline to see what has happened in the house, but it really only shows the history for alarms and cameras. They do not show the history of doors opening and closing when the alarm is off, which other systems do and can be quite handy at times. This seems like a simple app side update to incorporate more actions in the history but at this time they are not there. BOTTOM LINE: - If you are in the market for some DIY security, you would be hard pressed to find better value than this SimpliSafe package. The security monitoring is already fantastic, but to add in an indoor and outdoor camera really completes the package. This is a great way to have some peace of mind for monitoring your home without going overboard!

Within 1 month of moving into our new housing development, two houses were broken into and robbed...one while our neighbor was still at home in bed. We quickly added additional locks to all windows and doors, but my family felt it would be wise to invest in a home security system. What caught my eye about SimpliSafe (besides hearing nearly constant podcast advertising) is that there is no contract, the service cost is low, and there are more sensor options than virtually any other DYI Security System. I don’t have to deal with any pushy salesmen. I can purchase a starter system and then add sensors and cameras over time to build a custom system that meets my specific needs and interests. The system is incredibly simple to setup following the instructions in the mobile app. I was initially worried that the door sensors would not work - as my doors do not close flush with the surrounding trim. But, as long as the two pieces of the sensor are within 2 inches of one another, they work seamlessly. I was quickly able to label each sensor within the app so that I can be notified of which door is open or closed. And, I can set the base station to chime each time one of the doors is opened. The camera set-up was also impressively easy. I very much appreciate that the interior camera closes the shutter when the alarm is not armed. This provides assurance that nobody is able to view the interior of our house when we are not expecting it. The mobile app makes changing settings an absolute breeze. The app can be slow to load at times, but navigation and changing settings is easy and intuitive. My complaints are mostly minor. I wish that there were options to change the sound effect for the door chime and I hate that the exterior camera batteries charge via Micro USB instead of USB-C. I also don’t particularly like that the exterior camera is only held to the mount with a magnet. If you put the camera within reach, anybody could reach up and steal the entire camera just by lifting it off of the mount. Typically a security camera would not be installed in a location that can be easily reached, but the exterior camera runs off of batteries that will need to be recharged every 3 to 6 months - so you will need to be able to reach them often to change the battery. The good news is that SimpliSafe sells a solar panel adapter that will keep the external camera charged. I also don’t like that I can’t get over the perception that the system is reliant on Wi-Fi. The base station does have a Mobile Sim Card and backup battery inside - so cutting the Wi-Fi or power after the alarm is triggered will not prevent the system from alerting the police, but for some reason I am not completely confident that the system can stay fully armed without Wi-Fi. And, I pay extra for video monitoring. If the Wi-Fi is down, the cameras will not work - which may mean that police dispatch is slower than what I am paying for. My research says that SimpliSafe can function without Wi-Fi, but I cannot get over the feeling that communication may not work between all of the sensors and the keypad (or home base) without an internet connection. But, so far I have not experienced any issues. Overall, I will absolutely be recommending SimpliSafe to family and friends. Because it is so affordable and easy to set up - I think everybody interested in home security should try the system. SimpliSafe offers a 60 day trial where they will reimburse all equipment costs and even pay return shipping. I am aware that I now sound like one of the many podcast advertisements, but I am quite happy with the system. I will definitely be adding more sensors soon. After all, it is the only DYI system that has the option of Internal Cameras, External Cameras, Motions Sensors, Glass Breaking Sensors, Door Sensors, Window Sensors, Water Sensors, Temperature Sensors, Smoke Detectors, Key Fob Remote, Panic Button, and even a Smart Deadbolt and Video Doorbell. Home security truly cannot get more simple than this.

============================= >>>>> Bottom Line Up front: <<<<< ============================= - Everything you need to start securing the average sized home right in this box – literally upon unboxing it - Super easy installation of cameras and sensors thanks to easy-to-follow video walk throughs in the SimpliSafe “App” - No phone line needed for system to work - The SimpliSafe system has no local storage of recorded events - the best security and monitoring features are lock you in monthly price commitments, but long-term contract commitments are not required The SimpliSafe Home Security System with Outdoor Camera delivers on so many fronts, but still requires a paying for a monthly “Monitoring Plan” to get the “most” out of the features and enhanced security benefits that is offered on the box. The best thing about the SimpliSafe system is the ability to “customize” the number of sensors, cameras, and types hardware for your needs– in addition to – offering professional grade monitoring plans as well. Factor in dead simple mounting and installation of all the hardware (thanks in part to the SimpliSafe App walkthroughs), clear indoor AND outdoor HD video and audio capture, and a straightforward easy to use User Interface (UI) in the app (to include the included wireless Physical Keypad in the box) …. it becomes really hard NOT to appreciate the level of flexibility and security the SimpliSafe Home Security System can offer. ===================================== > Overall Design/Aesthetics and Installation: < ===================================== From an aesthetic perspective, most security systems either go full “stealth” and try to blend or hide into their surroundings – OR – modern/minimalist sort of motif that just goes with “anything”; but doesn’t exactly look like it is trying to hide in plain sight either. I think the SimpliSafe home security system and outdoor camera fall into that last camp. None of the sensors or cameras in this system are exceeding large or unpleasant to look at it – but its not like you going to “miss” one when looking around a room or at the exterior camera mounted location – especially in white like this system. All the sensors and wireless hardware pieces are conveniently shipped with self-adhesive pads pre-installed for near instantaneous mounting right out of the box. As you can see in my photos, you just peel and stick and your good to go. The only exceptions being the vase shaped base station, and outdoor camera (actually requires mounting a couple of screws). The open/close entry sensors are small and fit into almost any space, plus you can easily change out the coin shaped batteries once the time comes without having to buy a whole new sensor. Speaking of the base station, I thought it was pretty nifty that the LED color ring helped to identify the status of the system (armed, disarmed, etc). The wireless backlit keypad looks slick and modern; however, it doesn’t offer much more than basic arm/disarm and basic sensor (i.e., non camera) options on the built-in screen. At first, I was under the impression (or rather hopeful) that I could get a small video feed (even if low resolution) on it – but alas that’s not how the keypad works. Sure, would be a nice feature have someday, just saying … (although I am sure that would add to cost and reduced battery life). The Indoor SimpliCam looks all business in the all-matte black color scheme along with the black metal support stand. There isn’t much to say from a style perspective other than it’s the only “matte black” colored piece of hardware in the box (which was odd to me) – but I am not complaining. The wireless outdoor camera has a white exterior shell, with matte black camera plate and accents. I really liked the way SimpliSafe designed the whole “twist-off” face plate – that in turn houses the removal and rechargeable battery. I t made it really easy for me to keep the unit in place and just access the battery when I needed to. ==================================== > Personal thoughts /Usage observations: < ==================================== Having personally used home security systems from Vivint and ADT in the past, thanks to all the contracts, installation and equipment fees – I never went back (that was like 10 years ago). Ever since then I have relied on my own mix of networked home security cameras (to include doorbell and outdoor cameras) – with varying levels of satisfaction. What really stuck out to me is how super easy to set the whole system myself – WHILE STILL being able to get non contractual Professional level monitoring when I wanted it/need it. Prior to installing on the SimpliSafe System, I relied on the Eufy Security System with indoor/outdoor cameras. With that a basis for comparison, I can say that SimpliSafe’s “App” integration and UI is preferable. The SimpliCam’s video is crisp in both normal and low light situations, and I really appreciate the physical privacy that it has when not in use (by default). Same goes for the SimpliSafe outdoor camera – particularly the low light performance (as you can see in my photos as well). My porch is pretty dark against a wood line, and I am hard pressed to say the outdoor cam could not have been any brighter in the video captures. What I honestly don’t like is that there is no “local” storage, SD/USB, options. Call me old fashioned, but I am old school in having local access to my security and not having to rely on cloud or company servers to “hold” my data. I’d gladly pass “extra” for this functionality if it were ever offered, and if you’re the type of person where this is not a concern, then this may not bother you at all. This is further exacerbated by the fact that if you WANT unlimited recording saved to the “cloud” you have to “subscribe” (i.e. pay) for the lowest tier of “monitoring plans” from SimpliSafe. Otherwise, the “free” tier acts as a real time alert system on your phone or wireless keypad. One of the other things I found truly satisfying is that the SimpliSafe system has a built-in cellular radio, so that it DOES NOT require a dedicated land line to connect to emergency services for help. On top of that, the base station even has a built-in battery than can last a couple of hours - in the event of a crafty crook trying to cut power, or power outages that may encourage unsavory activities by some people looking to take advantage of that. ========================== >>>>> Closing thoughts: <<<<< ========================== Even though the last couple of things I said about my thoughts and observations seemed negative, I am still overly impressed with the whole SimpliSafe system. Because, if and when I want to go on vacation, I can simply “pay” for professional grade monitoring, that can call emergency services and connect WIHTOUT dedicated phone line service– and then cancel that once I get back home. Very few systems can provide me with that level of flexibly that I am aware of right now. The fact that the system can pull double duty is like having 2 systems in one (one being free “alert” monitoring, and the other being “paid” professional services) without having to “invest” or lock into long term monitoring agreements with the big names like ADT or Vivint, etc. The only thing that would make this perfect is just built-in storage options for events. Regardless, I feel the whole system delivers on what it set out to do – provide professional grade whole home protection that can grow and change to remain as flexible as you need it be.

>> Overview After having the Simplisafe security system with Outdoor Camera for about a week, the biggest takeaway I have is that it provided me with a huge sense of security when I am at home sleeping more than when I am away from the house. It looks like I am more worried about having security/safety issues while at home sleeping than away from home, so I would say that to me this system works best to protect my family than my property. Of course, I also see myself with an extra peace of mind if I am away on vacation for several days, as I know my home will be monitored and safe. My whole family shares this sentiment. Perhaps the only worry I have if I am away from home and the system is activated, is that a false-alarm is triggered and I am unable to get contacted, as I wouldn’t like to bother anyone if there was not need to. I haven’t used the system for a long period of time so I cannot say how the experience with this scenario would be. Even though you must pay for a monitoring plan, I think putting the extra money for a plan is worth every penny, having something protect your family, especially while sleeping, has no price. As of this review, I’d give Simplisafe a 5 rating. - Pros: easy to setup, easy to add sensors/cameras, no-contract, good selection of sensors. - Cons: a little lag in live camera video. >> Setup Despite a couple of glitches during setup, I was surprised at how easy it was to setup/configure the different components. In this aspect I think Simplisafe has a solid 5/5. Let’s look at what came in the box and where I placed the different components: - 1 base station: located in the living room. - 1 key pad: placed on the coffee table at the entrance for now. - 3 door sensors: used for the front door, back door and the garage door. - 1 motion sensor: position close to the stairs for now. - 1 indoor camera: placed in the dining area for now. - 1 outdoor camera: placed in the backyard attached to the shed pointing towards the back of the house for now (until a more permanent place to put it). With the setup above, I covered the first floor. For the second floor I might get one extra motion sensor and door sensor, but perhaps I don’t need to add more, time will tell. For the actual device setup/configuration, it was suggested to use the Phone App for the configuration, but it couldn’t connect to the Base Station. That is why for the first setup I had to use the Keypad to connect the Base Station to the WiFi. From there, it was easy to add the sensors and cameras. Note that for setting app the cameras, you need to subscribe to a monitoring plan (at least it didn’t allow me to just add the cameras and get a live view from them). >> Configuration There are three modes: Off, Home and Away. Home mode is for when going to sleep and Away mode is when going out. Each mode can be customized using the Simplisafe App. The App (phone) and Webb App (computer) provide good control of your device, and in addition, you have the keypad at hand to configure and control your system. The Keypad comes handy when I enter the house and want to disable the alarm without making use of my phone, in fact I use it all the time before leaving and after entering the house, and sometimes before going to home to set the Alarm System to “Home” mode. In case I forgot to arm the alarm, I can always go to the Simplisafe App and activate it from there. I like the fact that the Base Station provides audio notifications on different events, e.g. when opening a door when in Off mode, and also that it plays a real Sound Alarm when the circumstances merit. >> Monitoring We haven’t had any event that needed Simplisafe to contact us. There is a 72-hour trial period, a so-called Practice mode, that you have to go through before the full features for your monitoring service are enabled. Emergency Dispatch Service becomes active after that 72 hour period. >> Outdoor camera One thing to note about the outdoor camera, as it is something that is prominently advertised as part of this package, is that it is not intended to raise an alarm when detecting movement. It records on movement detection, alarm raised or if you connect directly to the camera through the Simplisafe App and start recording. Recordings are available for review using the App. Also, be careful to place the camera where there is good WiFi coverage. I placed it a little bit far away from the main WiFi router so I’d need to either extend the WiFi or move it closer to the house as I am not always successful to connect to it from the Phone or Web App. Although the outdoor camera is easy to setup, it is battery operated and is attached to the camera base with a strong magnet, I am a little worried that it is somehow easy to detach the camera from the magnet. Well, time will tell, but I am thinking about placing it a higher attached to the back of the house. >> One or multiple monitoring companies? We already have a “smart” doorbell, as well as well as a monitoring camera inside the house, and we have another outdoor camera we’ve ordered. Now, that I think, perhaps it would make more sense to pay only a single company and bundle all your monitoring devices under it. However, sometimes I feel that having multiple companies is akin to having risk spread across different entities instead of a single point of failure. So, I’d say to consider this before buying Simplesafe.

I've been with Simplisafe for almost 10 years now. During that time, I've had little to no issues with any of their equipment or their customer service. They are, simply put, the best home security company out there. My first alarm was from a nationally known name brand, and cost an outrageous amount of money each month while not being as reliable as Simplisafe has been. I feel very fortunate that I heard about Simplisafe all those years ago on the radio, because I have been a loyal customer ever since. The home security system reviewed here is an outstanding value. You get a base station, an indoor camera, three entry sensors, a motion detector, a keypad, and an outdoor camera. All for only $350. If you price things out individually, whether through SImplisafe or other competitors, there is no way you can reach the value that this package provides. And it just works. As someone who has had a Simplisafe system in their home, I can attest to how easy these are to set up and utilize. Since I already had a Simplisafe system, and I was looking to add on to it, this package is perfect. Want a second keypad to mount somewhere else in the house? You can use the existing keypad to add a second no problem. Want to add additional entry sensors, cameras, and motion sensors? You can add the sensors in the keypad and then add the cameras via the app. I installed the outdoor camera just off of my front door. It is aimed at my cars in the driveway and catches the front of the garage. I have it tucked up under the eves of the house where it does not get direct sunlight. This outdoor camera is completely wireless, which means it has a rechargeable battery that you have to pull out on occasion and charge. It has a motion detector on it that kicks it on for a brief period when it senses motion. It records and provides that information to you. I have had it installed for several days now, and the charge of the battery is the same as it was when I installed it. I did have some challenges getting it to talk to my router, and I had to reboot my extender to get it to work properly, but the video is 1080P and looks fantastic. The camera can be fastened to stucco with the included inserts and screws, the camera holder snaps into place, and in an ingenious design, the camera itself attaches magnetically. That way it can be easily removed to charge the battery. Kudos to Simplisafe!!! I was able to add all the other components without any issue, using the keypad and following the instructions. I now have two keypads, three motion sensors, and entry sensors on just about every part of the house we are in. The sense of safety and security is well worth the pittance paid to have a quality system like Simplisafe in the house. I also want to mention that Simplisafe, for those who might be unfamiliar, offers several different plans for monitoring. Since you are buying the system outright, there is no monthly contract. Simplisafe doesn't have anything that says you have to pay tons of money a month for three years to pay off some overpriced equipment like other competitors. If you choose, you can simply monitor the system yourself. You don't pay Simplisafe anything, and you just turn things on and leave. The only bummer about that, though, is if your alarm goes off, you are the only one who is going to respond. Then there is Standard Monitoring, at 14.99 a month. With this plan, Simplisafe monitors your sensors and dispatches emergency personnel if needed. They'll also give you a call if something gets triggered. The Interactive Monitoring plan, offered at 24.99 a month is the Cadillac of the plans. It gives you real time and on demand video feeds from the cameras at your house, provides video verification of a break in (something that is often necessary for the Police to dispatch to your house if the alarm is triggered) and many more items. I've had the Interactive Monitoring plan for nearly 10 years, and I haven't had one single issue with Simplisafe during that time. They have called to verify system tests, they have called when the alarm was accidentally set off (even called once to tell me the cat had set the alarm off), and they haven't had any downtime that I can remember. Everything just works. Hopefully this review has helped! I am a satisfied Simplisafe customer. Their products are reasonable in cost, high in value, and extremely reliable. The SimpliSafe - Home Security System with Outdoor Camera is an amazing product at an amazing price.