Deciding which home security provider to go with can be pretty daunting. Who has the latest equipment? Who can I trust to protect my home and family? What is it like using the system on a day-to-day basis?
To help you out, we’ve compared two well-known home security companies side by side: SimpliSafe and Xfinity. These big shots of the home security industry have a few significant differences in what they provide. Read on to feel more confident in deciding which system is right for you.
Xfinity Complete Home Security System
What Do SimpliSafe and Xfinity Have in Common?
You’ll be surprised to find how closely each company compares with one another. Both SimpliSafe and Xfinity offer quality equipment, so you’re on the right path if high-tech gadgets are high on your wish list.
SimpliSafe Equipment
Some tech options offered by both include:
- Motion sensors
- Remote operation via mobile apps
- High-resolution indoor/outdoor video surveillance
- 100 percent wireless devices that run on a cellular connection
FYI: Both companies are highly rated in terms of efficiency and effectiveness when it comes to preventing break-ins and deterring unwanted guests on your property. Talk about peace of mind!
Both SimpliSafe and Xfinity also offer multiple packages and monitoring options that allow you to choose the setup that works best for you.
A few more perks include:
- Entry sensors
- Cellular alerts
- Environmental protection
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- Security cameras
- Fast and reliable response
Last but not least, each company offers cellular connectivity, enabling the system to notify both you and the authorities in case of an emergency. You and those you put on your contact list will receive either text or email alerts — you choose the method. The system will also alert local law enforcement so units can be dispatched to your home. In other words, both companies have your back should things go south.
Did You Know? The motion sensor’s technology of SimpliSafe and Xfinity is pet-friendly. This means the motion sensor won’t send an alarm when your pet walks by. In fact, both motion sensors can detect the difference between humans and pets.
Alright, so you’ve narrowed things down to two companies both with similar offerings and both appeal to what you’re looking for. Now, let’s show you how these industry icons differ so that you can decide which one has exactly what you need.
SimpliCam with sleeve
SimpliSafe Overview
SimpliSafe is one of the simplest of advanced home security systems (hence the name). They offer environmental detection devices, a keychain remote, glass-break sensors, and 24/7 monitoring that is both effective and affordable. Their packages can also be self-monitored.
As far as installation goes, unlike Xfinity, SimpliSafe is installed and set up by you. This may sound intimidating at first, but before you panic, hear us out: The entire system can actually be installed and become fully operational in less than an hour! It’s literally good to go straight out of the box, no tools necessary. This may sound especially appealing to you hands-on, techy folk who like to get your hands dirty.
FYI: We tend to prefer DIY security systems over those that require professional installation.
SimpliSafe Wireless Keypad
SimpliSafe Pricing
SimpliSafe is extremely transparent with its pricing (also unlike Xfinity), making it easy to make a decision focused on budget. They offer several equipment packages ranging in price from $183 to $391. Their 24/7 professional monitoring packages cost just $15 per month for the Standard plan and $25 for the Interactive plan. To learn more about their offerings, check out our SimpliSafe pricing page.
SimpliSafe’s basic package includes the base station, a keypad, one motion sensor, and one entry sensor. And you can add additional equipment as needed. SimpliSafe also doesn’t require a contract of any kind: a major relief to those who have found themselves trapped in contracts in the past.
SimpliSafe Base Station Closeup
So what’s the downside we found with SimpliSafe? Limited home automation options and the fact that they only sell an indoor camera. We’d like to see SimpliSafe add a dedicated outdoor camera to their lineup, along with some smart home automation features beyond Amazon Alexa integration. SimpliSafe definitely trails Xfinity in the smarts department.
Pro Tip: Intrigued and want to learn more? Read our full review of SimpliSafe to find out why it’s our top-rated home security system. We share our full experience testing SimpliSafe for nearly 100 hours.
Xfinity Overview
Now as you can see from our product comparison chart above, Xfinity holds a SecureScore of 7.6 in comparison to SimpliSafe’s 9.3. Does that mean Xfinity should be overlooked? Not at all! The company certainly has some redeeming qualities.
First, Xfinity offers many technologically advanced features that SimpliSafe does not. We’re talking smart lights, smart locks, custom actions, and the list goes on. They also give their customers the option of bundling everything at one time, including internet service, cable, phone, and home security. This could be a major draw for those of you looking for an all-in-one kind of deal. They are also compatible with several other brands that allow for full-home automation.
Xfinity also provides professional installation. While we generally prefer DIY systems, this can be a relief to those who are less hands-on and more let-me-drink-my-coffee-while-you-do-the-dirty-work types. There is a one-time $99 installation fee, but we believe it’s worth it.
Did You Know? Xfinity is owned by Comcast, a multibillion dollar communications company. Take a look at our in-depth Xfinity Home Security review to learn more about how they perform in the residential home security space.
Xfinity Pricing
When it comes to pricing, Xfinity is not the cheapest option on the market. The amount you owe up front will be determined by the package you choose and whatever add-ons you might select. Xfinity packages start at $29.95 per month and increase as more equipment is added. Your price also increases per month after the first year of service.
Now for you bundlers out there, discounts are available. In fact, bundling is a major draw for most Xfinity customers and the overall sign-up process is generally quick and simple. Downside: bills may fluctuate without explanation (eek).
Pro Tip: If you’re tech-savvy, Xfinity may be worth the cost. Although it is pricey, keep in mind that Xfinity's technology helps you have optimal control of your security system.
One of Xfinity's more basic packages includes a touch screen controller, a motion sensor, three entry sensors, a wireless keypad, two indoor/outdoor cameras, a smart thermostat, and two light controls. Other pieces of equipment can be purchased and added to your package as desired.
Comcast Xfinity Home Security Mobile App Overview
Personally, we really like the scope of home automation that Xfinity offers. You could potentially access loads of smart features by connecting your third-party devices to your Xfinity system. These guys really offer some great tech.
Unfortunately, unlike SimpliSafe, Xfinity does require a two-year contract, and they charge expensive fees if you decide to terminate your service before your contract ends. That said, you do have a 30-day money-back guarantee with Xfinity, so rest easy that you aren’t signing your life away.
We didn’t exactly love that Xfinity has poor customer service ratings. However, some people don’t mind dealing with the occasional “Grumpy Gus” when calling their service providers; so again, it’s entirely up to you and what you’re looking for in your provider.
Overall, we liked our experience with Xfinity. Their high-tech monitoring plans met our standards, but we personally feel like the price tag is a bit steep compared to SimpliSafe.
Who to Choose?
Ultimately, this really boils down to who you are as a customer.
If you’re looking for a simple, do-it-yourself service with no contracts and affordable prices, SimpliSafe is definitely your best bet.
But if you’re looking to bundle your home services together, don’t want to install anything yourself, and place value in home automation, Xfinity might be the better choice.
Both offer reliable home protection with devices tailored to meet the needs of their customers.
